Fourier Series Problem: Find Frequencies in Signal

Thread starter iskorpit
Start date Jan 18, 2010
Tags

Fourier Fourier series Series

In summary, a Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sinusoidal functions. It can be used to find frequencies in a signal by analyzing the coefficients of the series. This method can be applied to various types of signals, including physical and non-physical ones. However, there are limitations to its accuracy and practicality, as it requires infinite terms and assumes certain conditions. Despite this, Fourier series have numerous real-world applications in signal processing, audio and image processing, telecommunications, and engineering.

Jan 18, 2010

iskorpit

Homework Statement

i can find the Fourier coefficent of the signal but i could't understand how to find the frequencies which are present in the signal.can anyone help me?

Physics news on Phys.org

Jan 18, 2010

Redbelly98

Staff Emeritus

Science Advisor

Homework Helper

Insights Author

What are the coefficients you found, and how did you calculate them? Also, what is the period of this signal?

1. What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sinusoidal functions with different frequencies, amplitudes, and phases.

2. How is a Fourier series used to find frequencies in a signal?

By analyzing the coefficients of the Fourier series, we can determine the frequencies present in a signal. The coefficients represent the amplitude and phase of each sinusoidal component, and the frequency can be calculated from the period of the function.

3. What types of signals can be analyzed with a Fourier series?

A Fourier series can be used to analyze any periodic signal, including sound waves, electromagnetic waves, and even non-physical signals such as financial data.

4. Are there any limitations to using a Fourier series to find frequencies in a signal?

Yes, a Fourier series is only accurate for periodic signals, and it assumes that the signal is continuous and has a well-defined period. It also requires an infinite number of terms to fully represent a signal, which may not be practical or feasible.

5. Are there any real-world applications of Fourier series for finding frequencies in a signal?

Yes, Fourier series are used extensively in signal processing for applications such as noise reduction, filtering, and data compression. They are also used in fields such as audio and image processing, telecommunications, and engineering.