Fourier Series and Energy Density

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the energy density of the function f(x) = |x|, defined over the interval -π to π, and its periodic extension. Participants explore the relationship between this function and Fourier series, as well as the concept of energy density in the context of periodic functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that f(t) = f(t + 2π) indicates the function is periodic with a Fourier series representation involving sine and cosine terms.
  • There is a discussion about the meaning of "energy density," with some participants suggesting it relates to Parseval's theorem and the power spectrum of a signal.
  • One participant provides a formula for power in terms of the Fourier transform, indicating that the power varies with frequency components and their amplitudes.
  • Another participant expresses difficulty in computing the Fourier series due to the absolute value in the function, seeking advice on how to proceed.
  • A participant mentions having solved the Fourier series and presents a result, indicating a desire to further explore how to find the energy density from this result.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the periodic nature of the function and its relation to Fourier series, but there is no consensus on the specific interpretation of energy density or the methods to compute it. Some participants express uncertainty about the calculations involved.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of clarity on the definition of energy density and the specific steps required to compute the Fourier series for the absolute function. The discussion also reflects varying levels of familiarity with the mathematical concepts involved.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and professionals interested in Fourier analysis, signal processing, and the application of mathematical concepts in physics and engineering.

chief10
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dealing with absolute functions that are limited always throws me off so let's consider this

f(x)=|x| for -∏ ≤ x < ∏
f(t)= f(t+2∏)

it's not too bad however finding the energy density is throwing me off a little..
the questions tend to be generally phrased as below:


Find the energy density of f(t).


-thanks guys and girls
 
Last edited:
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hi chief10! :smile:

(try using the Quick Symbols box next to the Reply box :wink:)

(i'm not sure what you're asking :confused:, but …)

f(t) = f(t + 2π) means that the function has period 2π,

so it will have a Fourier series, of coss and sins :smile:
 
tiny-tim said:
hi chief10! :smile:

(try using the Quick Symbols box next to the Reply box :wink:)

(i'm not sure what you're asking :confused:, but …)

f(t) = f(t + 2π) means that the function has period 2π,

so it will have a Fourier series, of coss and sins :smile:


hey there thanks for the hello :)

i'll make the question more clear
 
Please do! For one thing, "energy" is a physics concept, not mathematics so you will have to say what you mean by the "energy density".
 
HallsofIvy said:
Please do! For one thing, "energy" is a physics concept, not mathematics so you will have to say what you mean by the "energy density".
what I'm talking about is energy density of a periodic function ~ f(t)

you know, Parseval and all that - it corresponds to Fourier in mathematics.
 
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Hi chief10,

You seem to be looking for the "power spectrum of a signal" that is used often by electrical engineers. It's called other names such as spectral density, power spectral density and energy spectral density. The idea is that the power varies according to what frequency components exist in the signal in addition to their amplitude. The power for each frequency component varies according to the square of the frequency.

power \quad = \quad \int_{- \infty}^{\infty} \! |f(t) |^2 \, \mathrm{d} t

Taking the Fourier transform (the conjugate of F{f(t)} is needed because the wave equation is complex)

power \quad = \quad \int_{- \infty}^{\infty} \! |F(\omega) |^2 \, \mathrm{d} \omega \quad = \quad F(\omega)F^*(\omega)

The meaning of F() on the left is specific to the frequency under the integral whereas on the right it means the summation of every frequency that exists in the signal. Though this is an over-simplified explanation. See a derivation of Parseval's theorem for the details (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parseval's_theorem for example)
 
Last edited:
PhilDSP said:
Hi chief10,

You seem to be looking for the "power spectrum of a signal" that is used often by electrical engineers. It's called other names such as spectral density, power spectral density and energy spectral density. The idea is that the power varies according to what frequency components exist in the signal in addition to their amplitude. The power for each frequency component varies according to the square of the frequency.

power \quad = \quad \int_{- \infty}^{\infty} \! |f(t) |^2 \, \mathrm{d} t

Taking the Fourier transform (the conjugate of F{x(t)} is needed because the wave equation is complex)

power \quad = \quad \int_{- \infty}^{\infty} \! |F(\omega) |^2 \, \mathrm{d} \omega \quad = \quad F(\omega)F^*(\omega)

Though this is an over-simplified explanation. See a derivation of Parseval's theorem for the details (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parseval's_theorem for example)

so probably a good idea to find the Fourier Series for f(t) first?
 
Yes, the result of doing the Fourier transform gives you the Fourier series.
 
hmm I'm having trouble computing this series

the absolute is making it difficult, any ideas?
 
  • #10
  • #11
I solved the series. I'm hoping I did it correctly.
This is what I got.

(∏/2) - 2*Σ [((-1)n/n)*sin(nx)]I'll see what I can do with the above to find Energy Density of f(t)
 

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