Fourier Series vs Fourier Transforms: What's the Difference?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the differences between Fourier series and Fourier transforms, exploring their definitions, applications, and the nature of approximations in these mathematical tools. The scope includes theoretical aspects and conceptual clarifications related to periodic and non-periodic functions.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants state that Fourier series is used for periodic functions while Fourier transforms apply to non-periodic functions.
  • Another participant claims that Fourier transforms generalize Fourier series, providing a frequency spectrum for functions where applicable.
  • One participant argues that both Fourier series and Fourier transforms allow for perfect reconstruction of the original function, challenging the idea that they are approximations.
  • It is noted that approximations arise when truncating series or band-limiting transforms, which can occur in practical applications.
  • Some participants provide external resources for further reading on the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether Fourier series and Fourier transforms should be considered approximations, indicating a lack of consensus on this aspect of the discussion.

Contextual Notes

The discussion includes various assumptions about the nature of periodicity and the conditions under which Fourier series and transforms are applied, which may not be fully explored or defined by participants.

Rsw
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what is the difference between Fourier series and Fourier transforms ?
 
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Fourier series is an approximation of periodic functions, but Fourier transform is applied to the functions which isn't periodic(period = infinite).
 
Last edited:
Fourier transform(FT) is the generalization of Fourier series. In FT you get frequency spectrum of a function f (if FT exists for f) and instead of spectrum you get discrete frequencies if f is periodic.

Note: Both FT and Fourier series are approximations of f
 
I'd like to clarify that FT and FS are not approximations. Both are mathematical transforms that allow perfect reconstruction of the original function. For example, what is the Fourier Series of cos(x)? Hmmm, seems exact to me.

Where the approximations come in is when you have an infinite series or a transform that extends to infinity. Then, you may decide to truncate the series or band-limit the transform, when using them to reconstruct the original function. Even if they are not infinite, you could still truncate/band-limit. Hence, you could say that a truncated FS or a band limited FT are approximations.
 
thanks 4 give me such replies...
 
can u tell me about some good books for "digital electronics"??
where i can clear my concept of "encoder,decoder and sequential circuits" and verilog of it also.
 
encoder, decoder and sequential circuit are very basic stuffs in logic design and any digital design books have this topic.
I have this book(older edition) and it's pretty good.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/0131863894/?tag=pfamazon01-20

Although I have 2 verilog books, neither is good and I wouldn't recommend them.
Just search in amazon and find the one with good ratings.
 
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