Any ideas about how to solve this problem involving fourier transforms?

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the function f(x) given a known function g(x) and a specified relationship between the two. The suggested approach involves using the inverse Fourier transform and an integro-differential equation to solve for the Fourier transform of f(x).
  • #1
enfield
21
0
[tex] \dfrac{\mathcal{F}^{-1} \Big( \sqrt{\mathcal{F}(f(x))} \Big)}{f(x)} = g(x)

[/tex]

g(x) is known, and for an example let's say g(x) is something simple like [tex] g(x) = x [/tex]

so we have [tex] \mathcal{F}^{-1} \Big( \sqrt{\mathcal{F}(f(x))} \Big) = x \cdot f(x) [/tex]

my question is, how do i find f(x)?

it's basically like you Fourier transform f(x), do something to it (in this case take the root), then inverse Fourier transform back to the original variable, and you want the new function to have a specified relationship to the old function (in this case have it be the old one multiplied by x).

one specific example of that kind of thing is Fourier transforming the function f(x), multiplying by another function, and then inverse Fourier transforming it back. There the new function is the convolution of f(x) and the function you multiplied the Fourier transform of f(x) by.

Any ideas? thanks.
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Hey enfield.

Have you tried looking at the integro-differential equation that describes your function f(x)?

One suggestion is try and expand your LHS with the inverse Fourier transform as the integral involving the inverse tranform integral with the F of square root of x and then on the RHS you have f(x)g(x).

You can then differentiate both sides and the idea is to do it in such a way that gets rid of the integral and allows you to solve for F(f(x)) (i.e. the Fourier transform of f(x)).
 

1. What is a Fourier transform?

A Fourier transform is a mathematical tool used to break down a complex signal or function into simpler components. It represents a signal as a sum of sinusoidal functions with different frequencies, amplitudes, and phases.

2. How can Fourier transforms be applied to problem-solving?

Fourier transforms are commonly used in signal processing, image processing, and data analysis. They can help to identify the frequency components in a signal, filter out unwanted noise, and reconstruct a signal from its frequency components.

3. Are there different types of Fourier transforms?

Yes, there are different types of Fourier transforms, including the discrete Fourier transform (DFT), the fast Fourier transform (FFT), and the continuous Fourier transform (CFT). These different types are used in different applications and have different mathematical properties.

4. What are some challenges or limitations of using Fourier transforms?

One challenge of using Fourier transforms is that they assume the signal is periodic, which may not always be true in real-world data. Additionally, the accuracy of a Fourier transform can be affected by noise or missing data.

5. Are there any alternatives to using Fourier transforms for problem-solving?

Yes, there are alternative methods for analyzing signals and functions, such as wavelet transforms and Laplace transforms. Each method has its own strengths and weaknesses, and the choice of which to use will depend on the specific problem at hand.

Similar threads

  • Differential Equations
Replies
1
Views
655
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
273
  • Differential Equations
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
344
  • Differential Equations
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
783
  • Linear and Abstract Algebra
Replies
3
Views
922
  • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
802
Back
Top