Confusing Step - Euler's Formula?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a step in a problem involving Euler's formula and its application in the context of integrals, specifically focusing on the conversion of exponential terms to trigonometric functions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster questions the validity of a step involving the conversion of an exponential function to a cosine function, specifically whether cos(-πkx) should be used instead of cos(πkx). Other participants clarify the relationship between the exponential and cosine functions as described by Euler's formula.

Discussion Status

The discussion is exploring the nuances of Euler's formula and its implications for the problem at hand. Some participants provide clarifications regarding the properties of cosine, indicating a productive exchange of ideas without reaching a definitive conclusion.

Contextual Notes

There is a mention of the context being potentially misplaced, as one participant notes a concern about posting in the wrong section, which may affect the focus of the discussion.

BustedBreaks
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I'm following the answer to a problem and I see this step which I am unsure about:[tex]F[k]=\frac{1}{2}\int^{1}_{-1}|x|e^{-\pi i k x}dx[/tex]

[tex]F[k]=\frac{1}{2}\int^{1}_{-1}|x|cos(\pi k x)dx[/tex]

For k equal to all integers. Shouldn't the conversion from the exponential be [tex]cos(-\pi k x)[/tex]
 
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Crap, wrong section
 
[tex]e^{-i \pi k x}~=~cos(- \pi k x) + i sin(- \pi k x)[/tex]

cos(-u) = cos(u)
 
...Duh...

Thanks.
 

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