Function with Euler's constant

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The discussion revolves around finding an alternative representation of the function x/(e^x - 1) as a trigonometric function without using Bernoulli numbers. Participants express confusion about what is meant by "display as a trigonometric function" and explore various approaches, including using complex exponentials and Taylor series. There is a focus on understanding the role of Bernoulli numbers in series expansions and their connection to the function in question. Suggestions include using local linearizations and exploring relationships with the Riemann zeta function. The inquiry highlights a desire for clarity on the significance of Bernoulli numbers in mathematical series.
eaglechief
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Hello all,

is there an alternative way of displaying

##\frac{x}{e^{x}-1}##

as a trigonometric function, not using the bernoulli-numbers ?

Thanks in advance
 
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I'm not sure what you mean by "display as a trigonometric function". Would writing e^x as cos(x)+ i sin(x) help?
 
HallsofIvy said:
I'm not sure what you mean by "display as a trigonometric function". Would writing e^x as cos(x)+ i sin(x) help?
Regardless of what it means, writing it this way would not help since it is not true. It is ##e^x##, not ##e^{ix}## ...
 
Well, you can replace x by ix.
 
Turn it upside down: e^{x}-1=\frac{x}{1!}+\frac{x^{2}}{2!}+..., so \frac{e^{x}-1}{x}=\frac{1}{1!}+\frac{x}{2!}+\frac{x^{2}}{3!}.... Don't know if that helps.
 
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Maybe set up a triangle with one side ## f(x)=x ## and the other side a local linearization of ## e^x -1 ##, then use Taylor series for arcsin or arc cos? Just an idea, Ihave not worked it out.
 
Thanks for your answers, I do think the answers of Svein and WWGD do help me the best.

Basically, i am trying to understand, what the Bernoulli Numbers "do" and why they can be developed in a series expansion leading to the simple result x/(e^x-1).
I started by checking that Faulhaber-formulas, where the bernoulli-numbers appear in the last term while summarising x^2n with escalating x. Second, i wonder why they "appear" only with 2n index (except B#1).

thx for any hint !
 
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