Definition clarification for Fourier transform

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SUMMARY

The discussion clarifies the correct definitions of the Fourier transform, specifically focusing on the use of the square root of 2π in the formulas. The accurate forms are identified as: F(k) = [1/(√2π)] ∫∞-∞ f(x)e^(-ikx) dx for the forward transform and f(x) = [1/(√2π)] ∫∞-∞ f(k)e^(ikx) dk for the inverse transform. It is established that the sign of the exponent must change between the forward and inverse transforms, confirming that only the second version is correct. Additionally, the discussion raises the question of extending these definitions to multiple dimensions using volume integrals.

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I have been studying Fourier transforms lately. Specifically, I have been studying the form of the formula that uses the square root of 2π in the definition. Now here is the problem:

In some sources, I see the forward and inverse transforms defined as such:
F(k) = [1/(√2π)] ∫-∞ f(x)eikx dx
f(x) = [1/(√2π)] ∫-∞ f(k)eikx dkIn other cases, I've seen:
F(k) = [1/(√2π)] ∫-∞ f(x)e-ikx dx
f(x) = [1/(√2π)] ∫-∞ f(k)eikx dk

Notice that in the first version of the forward transform (the one that solves for F(k)), the exponential in the integrand has a positive sign in the exponent ikx, while in the 2nd version it has a negative ikx.

Which version is correct? Are they both correct and it is a matter of convention? Are neither correct?

Also, is there some way to do a multiple dimensional Fourier transform using volume integrals? If so, what is the formula for that (preferably including (√2π))?
 
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Only the 2nd pair is correct. There are a couple conventional issues, but no matter what the sign on the exponent has to change for the inverse transform relative to the forward transform.
 

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