Fourier transform of a gaussian

In summary, the Fourier transform of a gaussian is equal to another gaussian according to equation (4) on the MathWorld website. However, when using equation (1), a different answer is obtained. It is unclear how the calculations are being done incorrectly using the normal definition of Fourier transforms. Showing the working and setting a=1/2 \sigma ^2 and k=1/2\sqrt{2 pi sigma} may provide more insight.
  • #1
sleventh
64
0
fourier transform of the gaussian (1/[tex]\sqrt{2 pi \sigma}[/tex]) e ^ ([tex]^{x^2/2\sigma^2}[/tex])



now the Fourier of a gaussian is said to equal another gaussian as shown by equation (4) here:
http://mathworld.wolfram.com/FourierTransform.html

but when i also did it using equation (1) here:
http://mathworld.wolfram.com/FourierTransform.html

i find a completely different answer.

im wondering how i am doing the calculations wrong using the normal definition of Fourier transforms.

fourier transforms are very new to me so any help is much appreciated thank you.
 
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  • #2
you'll have more chance if you show you working, its pretty hard to guess what you're doing wrong
 
  • #3
setting a=1/2 [tex]\sigma[/tex] ^2 and k=1/2[tex]\sqrt{2 pi sigma}[/tex] i use the concept the Fourier of a gaussian equals another gaussian and am given
[tex]\sqrt{2 sigma ^2 pi}[/tex] e^((-2pi^2 [tex]\sigma[/tex]^2 / [tex]\sqrt{2 pi sigma}[/tex]
 

1. What is the Fourier transform of a gaussian?

The Fourier transform of a gaussian is a mathematical operation that decomposes a gaussian function into its individual sine and cosine components.

2. How is the Fourier transform of a gaussian calculated?

The Fourier transform of a gaussian can be calculated using the formula F(k) = ∫-∞ f(x) e-2πikx dx, where f(x) is the gaussian function and k is the frequency.

3. What is the relationship between a gaussian function and its Fourier transform?

The Fourier transform of a gaussian is also a gaussian function, but with a spread in the frequency domain that is inversely proportional to the spread in the time domain.

4. What are the applications of the Fourier transform of a gaussian?

The Fourier transform of a gaussian is used in many fields, including signal processing, image processing, and quantum mechanics. It is particularly useful for analyzing signals that contain gaussian-shaped peaks.

5. Can the Fourier transform of a gaussian be used to reconstruct the original signal?

Yes, the inverse Fourier transform of the Fourier transform of a gaussian will result in the original gaussian function. However, the reconstruction may not be exact due to the limitations of the Fourier transform.

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