Fourier sine series for a triangular wave on a finite string

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To find the Fourier coefficient Bn for a triangular wave on a fixed string of length L = 8, the initial displacement must be defined, typically as a small lift at the center. The triangular shape can be represented by linear equations: ax from 0 to L/2 and a(L-x) from L/2 to L. It is important to ensure the displacement function is continuous and appropriately defined for the Fourier series calculation. The specific value of the lift (h) does not affect the calculation of Bn. The discussion emphasizes the need for accurate representation of the wave shape in the Fourier analysis.
nazmus sakib
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Homework Statement


A string of length L =8 is fixed at both ends. It is given a small triangular displacement and released from rest at t=0. Find out Fourier coefficient Bn.

Homework Equations



what should i use for U0(x) ?

The Attempt at a Solution


fourier sin.png
 
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Hello nazmus, :welcome:

ax from 0 to L/2 and x(1-x) from L/2 to L . Oops :nb), I'm not supposed/allowed to give direct answers !
 
nazmus sakib said:

Homework Statement


A string of length L =8 is fixed at both ends. It is given a small triangular displacement and released from rest at t=0. Find out Fourier coefficient Bn.

Homework Equations



what should i use for U0(x) ?
First, you need to know what the "small" displacement is. Let's say you lift the center by an amount ##h##, so the center of the string is at ##(\frac L 2,h)##. Now just find the equation of the two straight line segments forming the triangular displacement. Also, I would ignore BvU's answer which is a) discontinuous and b) partially parabolic.
 
LCKurtz said:
Also, I would ignore BvU's answer which is a) discontinuous and b) partially parabolic.
No, it was just a typo. I (of course) meant

ax from 0 to L/2 and a(L-x) from L/2 to L
And for the Fourier coefficient calculation it really doesn't matter how big a (or h) is.

All lin good spirit :smile:

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Last edited:
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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