Fourier Transform of Integral of Product of Functions

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The discussion focuses on finding the Fourier transform of the integral of the product of two functions, specifically \(\int_{-\infty}^t f(s-t)g(s) ds\). Participants suggest using the Fourier transform of a convolution and discuss the need to reverse the time argument in the function \(f\). A participant recommends a different definition of the Fourier transform that simplifies the process, emphasizing the relationship between frequency and angular frequency. There is a mention of a potential sign difference in the final answer. The conversation highlights the complexities involved in applying Fourier transforms to integrals of products of functions.
WarnK
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Hi!

I want to find the Fourier transform of

\int_{-\infty}^t f(s-t)g(s) ds.

The FT

\int_{-\infty}^t h(s) ds \rightarrow H(\omega)/i\omega + \pi H(0) \delta(\omega)

is found in lots of textbooks. So if I let h(s) = f(s-t)g(s), I need to find the FT of h(s)

H(\omega) = \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} h(s) \frac{e^{-i\omega s}}{\sqrt(2\pi)}ds = \int_{-\infty}^{\infty} f(s-t)g(s) \frac{e^{-i\omega s}}{\sqrt(2\pi)} ds.

But there I'm stumped, what can I do? I can do FT of products like f(s)g(s), but this isn't exactly like that.
 
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Did you try the Fourier transform of a convolution?
 
Defennder said:
Did you try the Fourier transform of a convolution?

yeah, but the OP needs to reverse the "time" argument in f(.).

WarnK, where did you get that icky 1/\sqrt{2 \pi} definition for the F.T.?

i really recommend this definition:

X(f) = \int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} x(t) e^{-i 2 \pi f t} dt

with inverse

x(t) = \int_{-\infty}^{+\infty} X(f) e^{i 2 \pi f t} df

while remembering that \omega \equiv 2 \pi f, and when comparing to the double-sided Laplace Transform to substitute i \omega \leftarrow s.

it will make your life much easier.
 
I'm rather new to this myself. So the answer differs by a minus sign?
 
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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