Fourier transform of multivalued functions

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on evaluating the Fourier transform of a multivalued function represented by the integral I=\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dx \, e^{-\imath x t} \frac{(1-x^2)}{(1+x^2)^{3/2} (a^2+x^2)}. The integrand features branch points and poles on the imaginary axis, complicating the evaluation. The user attempted to rewrite the integral and apply the convolution theorem using Mathematica, achieving a finite result but encountering discrepancies between numerical and analytical solutions. The discussion seeks strategies for resolving these differences.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier transforms and their properties
  • Familiarity with complex analysis, particularly branch points and poles
  • Proficiency in using Mathematica for symbolic computation
  • Knowledge of the convolution theorem and its applications
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of Fourier transforms of multivalued functions
  • Learn about branch cuts and their implications in complex integrals
  • Explore the convolution theorem in greater detail, particularly in relation to Fourier transforms
  • Investigate numerical methods for verifying analytical solutions in Mathematica
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, physicists, and engineers dealing with complex integrals, particularly those interested in Fourier analysis and numerical methods for validating analytical results.

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Dear all,

I have recently come across the following Fourier transform (FT):

[itex] <br /> I=\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dx \, e^{-\imath x t} \frac{(1-x^2)}{(1+x^2)^{3/2} (a^2+x^2)}.<br /> [/itex]

The integrand contains two branch points on the imaginary axis, plus two poles also residing on the imaginary axis. The two simple poles can either be on or off the branch cuts depending on the value of the constant "a". Admittedly, I am experiencing some problems evaluating the above FT. The integrand admit a finite analytical result (I mean when evaluated without the exponential term), so I believe also its FT should exists. One of the strategies I have tried has been to rewrite the integral as:

[itex] <br /> I=\int_{-\infty}^{\infty} dx \, \frac{e^{-\imath x t}}{(1+x^2)^{1/2}} \frac{(1-x^2)}{(1+x^2) (a^2+x^2)}.<br /> [/itex]

and use the convolution theorem for the "two" functions. The FT of the inverse square root function is the modified Bessel function of the First kind, while the second one can be easily evaluated since it only contains simple poles. I have performed the convolution using Mathematica, that after some time gave me a finite and nice looking answer. Unfortunately, by confronting the numerical and the analytical solution graphically, the two plots look slightly different, even though they show a similar behaviour... clearly something is missing.

Has everyone came across something similar? Do you have any suggestions on strategies to adopt in order to solve the above integral?

Thank you!
 
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