Finding Fourier Series of f(x)=√(x2) -pi/2<x<pi/2

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the Fourier series of the function f(x) = √(x²) for the interval -π/2 < x < π/2, with a specified period of π. Participants are addressing a homework problem that involves mathematical reasoning and technical explanation related to Fourier series coefficients.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related, Mathematical reasoning, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents an initial attempt at solving the problem but expresses difficulty in arriving at the correct answer.
  • Another participant suggests that there may be an algebraic error in the initial attempt and provides a general form for the Fourier series.
  • A third participant points out that the function should be expressed as f(x) = |x|, emphasizing the use of the half-period formula and noting that the function is even.
  • Concerns are raised about the calculation of the coefficient a₀, with a correction suggested regarding the integral limits and the factor of 2/π instead of 1/2π.
  • Further clarification is provided regarding the aₙ coefficients, indicating that the participant's previous coefficient was incorrect and should reflect the correct period length.
  • One participant acknowledges the feedback and attempts to correct their work but remains uncertain about the negative sign in the integral of sin(x).
  • Another participant reassures that the new solutions seem promising but reiterates the need to adjust the coefficient for aₙ to match the correction made for a₀.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to correct the coefficients and the use of the half-period formula, but there remains uncertainty regarding specific calculations and the handling of negative signs in integrals. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the final form of the Fourier series or the correctness of the calculations.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about specific mathematical steps, particularly regarding the integration process and the correct application of coefficients in the Fourier series. There are unresolved issues related to the handling of negative signs in integrals and the overall correctness of the attempted solutions.

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Homework Statement


Find the Fourier series of the function
f(x) =√(x2) -pi/2<x<pi/2 , with period pi

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I have tried attempting the question, but couldn't get the answer. uploaded my attempted qns with the picture attached
WhatsApp Image 2017-01-20 at 9.34.39 PM.jpeg
 
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Your work looks solid at first glance...maybe an algebraic error, I'll go back and look at the details soon.
Remember, your final form should be something like:
## f(x) = a_0 + \sum_{n=1}^\infty a_n \cos 2n x ##
 
You were right to use the half-period formula and notice it was an even function. You did not write it like one f(x) = |x|, not f(x) = x.
For ##a_0##, it looks like you did 1/2pi, instead of 1/pi for the full period of pi. On the half-period formula, you want to double the result to get the full period, so you should end up with 2/pi as your coefficient on that integral
## a_0 = \frac2\pi \int_0^{\pi/2} f(x) \, dx .##
For your ##a_n ## terms, your coefficient was incorrect as well, since it should be (L was correctly identified as pi/2).
##a_n = \frac2L \int_0^{L} f(x)\cos\left(\frac{nx}{L} \right)\, dx .##
Other than those coefficients, your integration by parts looks to be done correctly from what I can make out.
**edit** you missed a negative sign in the sine integral. Integral of sin(x) dx = - cos x. **end of edit**
Let me know if you are still having trouble.
 
Last edited:
Thanks a lot for helping. I have decided to redo the whole question and corrected the ao. But i can't find the mistake that you pointed out for the integral sin(x)dx= -cos x. Also my answer is still incorrect. :H
 

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I must have lost track of the negative sign somewhere--your new solutions seem to be in the right neighborhood.
Look at the coefficient on your ##a_n## integral. It is the same as the one you used on your ##a_0## integral. It should be twice as big.
 
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