A function as a Fourier series

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving a partial differential equation (P.D.E.) by expressing the function \(x - x^2\) as a Fourier series. The specific task is to determine the coefficients \(f_n\) in the series \(\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} f_n \sin(n \pi x)\). The user attempted to differentiate both sides and evaluate at \(x=0\) to identify a pattern in the coefficients but encountered inconsistencies. The solution involves utilizing the orthogonality property of sine functions to correctly derive the coefficients.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier series representation
  • Knowledge of orthogonality in trigonometric functions
  • Familiarity with partial differential equations (P.D.E.)
  • Basic calculus, including differentiation and limits
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Fourier series, focusing on coefficient determination
  • Learn about the orthogonality of sine functions in the context of Fourier analysis
  • Explore techniques for solving partial differential equations using Fourier series
  • Practice deriving Fourier coefficients from various functions
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying Fourier analysis, partial differential equations, or anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of series expansions in mathematical contexts.

pinkflahippo
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I'm working on a P.D.E. homework problem and the one part of it my professor gave us a function and wants us to set it equal to a given series and find the variable. Specifically, find f(sub n) in

x-x[tex]^{2}[/tex]=[tex]\sum[/tex] (from n=1 to [tex]\infty[/tex]) f(sub n) sin(n[tex]\pi[/tex]x)

I'm not sure exactly how to do this. I tried writing out the series, then taking the derivative of both sides and setting x=0 (then repeat process) and trying to find a pattern, but I ended up getting an unequal statement. My attempt there was hoping that something would zero out and I could see how the f is changing from f(sub 0) to f(sub 1) to f(sub 2)... I guess my question is where my logic is wrong and how I should begin the problem instead. Thanks in advance!
 
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Exploit the orthogonality of sine functions.
 

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