Fourier series neither odd nor even

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the Fourier Series for a specific periodic signal defined piecewise. Participants explore the appropriate representation of the function using Fourier series coefficients and address issues related to the function's properties.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a piecewise function and attempts to calculate its Fourier Series, expressing confusion over the coefficients and the angle θk.
  • Another participant suggests using a more general Fourier series that includes both sine and cosine terms, questioning whether the function is better represented by one type over the other.
  • A participant asserts that since the function is neither odd nor even, it should indeed be represented using both sine and cosine terms, while also expressing uncertainty about the formula's applicability to all real functions.
  • There is a challenge regarding the definition of the function, specifically whether it repeats below x=0 and above x=3π, indicating a need for clarity in the function's periodicity.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the best approach to represent the function. There are competing views on the necessity of using both sine and cosine terms, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the function's definition and periodicity.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the definition of the function, particularly regarding its behavior outside the specified interval. The applicability of the Fourier series formula to all real functions is also questioned.

Nemo's
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Homework Statement


I'm trying to calculate the Fourier Series for a periodic signal defined as:

y = x 0<x<2Π
y = 0 2Π≤x<3Π

Homework Equations


Fn = 1/T ∫T f(t)cos(kwοt + θk)[/B]
cn/2 + ∑k=1k=∞(cn)cos(kwοt+θk)
cn= 2|Fn|
θk=∠Fn

The Attempt at a Solution


I got Cn = -(√3/ +9/4Π)
θk = -kwοt

The problem with this value for θk is that k disappears from the summation. I need this formula to be able to regenerate the original signal from it's Fourier series coefficients using matlab. I must be doing something wrong. I would really appreciate it if someone told me what to do.
 
Last edited:
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Try using a more general Fourier series with both sine and cosine in it.
Looking at your function - is it better served by a sum of cosines or a sum of sines?
 
Simon Bridge said:
Try using a more general Fourier series with both sine and cosine in it.
Looking at your function - is it better served by a sum of cosines or a sum of sines?
My function is neither odd nor even so it has to be represented using both sines and cosines right?
I thought the formula I'm using above works fine for all real functions. In fact the first part of the question asked me to prove this.
I'll try using the general form anyway and post the results.
 
Nemo's said:
My function is neither odd nor even so it has to be represented using both sines and cosines right?
I thought the formula I'm using above works fine for all real functions.
You're quite right, in that form it can represent any real periodic function.
But you haven't defined your function too well. Does it repeat below x=0 and above x=3pi?
 

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