Fourier series How to integrate SinxCosnx?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around computing Fourier series, specifically focusing on integrating the product of sine and cosine functions. The original poster presents a function f(x) = sin(x) and seeks assistance with the integration of sin(x)cos(nx) as part of finding the Fourier cosine series.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the integration of sin(x)cos(nx) and suggest using product-to-sum identities or complex exponentials. There is also a mention of handling a piecewise function for another Fourier series computation, raising questions about how to properly set up the integrals for each segment.

Discussion Status

Some participants provide guidance on using identities to simplify the integration process. The conversation includes clarifications on the correct form of the function and the approach to take for the piecewise function, indicating a productive exploration of the topic without reaching a consensus.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of using Euler formulas and confusion regarding the transition between different forms of Fourier series. Participants are navigating the complexities of integrating piecewise functions and ensuring the correct application of Fourier series concepts.

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Homework Statement


Compute the Fourier cosine series for given function:

f(x)=sinx 0<x<pi

Homework Equations



for cosine series of f(x) on [0,T]... use this general equation:
http://mathworld.wolfram.com/FourierCosineSeries.html

The Attempt at a Solution



so I get:

a0 = (2/pi) * integral(sinxdx) with bounds 0 to pi = 4/pi

but then.. when I try to compute an

I get
an=(2/pi) * integral(sinx*cosnx*dx) with bounds 0 to pi
How do I integrate sinxcosnx?
 
Last edited:
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How did you go from f(x)=e^x to f(x)=sin(x)? Either way use the product-to-sum identity to write sin(x)cos(nx) as a sum of sine functions or express the sine and cosine functions in terms of complex exponentials.
 
Cyosis said:
How did you go from f(x)=e^x to f(x)=sin(x)? Either way use the product-to-sum identity to write sin(x)cos(nx) as a sum of sine functions or express the sine and cosine functions in terms of complex exponentials.

Ah, sorry I'm becoming delusional from doing too much work in one day. It's fixed now.

I do get sin(x)cos(nx) right? Or am I doing something wrong
 
Yes you do get sin(x)cos(nx) with the edited f(x). Now use \sin \theta \cos \varphi = {\sin(\theta + \varphi) + \sin(\theta - \varphi) \over 2}
 
Ah, thanks so much. Sorry I actually have another question though,

I am asked to compute the Fourier series for the following 2 part function:

f(x)=1 -2<x<0
f(x)=x 0<x<2

I'm supposed to do this using the "Euler formulas" not the cos/sin formulas.

However, I'm not sure how this two part thing works. When trying to find an, do I just do the integral of part 1 + integral of part 2?

so...
an = [(1/2)*integral(1*cos(n*pi*x/2)) from -2 to 0] + [(1/2)*integral(x*cos(n*pi*x/2)) from 0 to 2]
 
You're splitting the integral up correctly, but you said you're supposed to use the exponential form of the Fourier-transform after which you use the cosine form instead (confusing). Do it again using the exponential form.
 

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