Help please: Fourier Transform of a Gaussian function showing integral equals 1

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on finding the Fourier transform G(K) of the Gaussian function g(x) = e^(-πx^2) and demonstrating that the integral of g(x) over the entire real line equals 1. The user is tasked with deriving G(K) using the relationship H(K) = 2πiK * G(K) and the differential equation formed from the Fourier transform of the derivative g'(x). The conclusion drawn is that integrating G(K) from k = -∞ to ∞ yields the result that ∫ e^(-πx^2) dx = 1.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier transforms, specifically G(K) and H(K).
  • Knowledge of Gaussian functions and their properties.
  • Familiarity with differential equations in the context of Fourier analysis.
  • Experience with integration techniques over infinite intervals.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of the Fourier transform of Gaussian functions.
  • Learn about the relationship between Fourier transforms and differential equations.
  • Explore techniques for evaluating integrals of the form ∫ e^(-ax^2) dx.
  • Investigate the implications of the Parseval's theorem in Fourier analysis.
USEFUL FOR

Students in mathematics or physics, particularly those studying Fourier analysis, differential equations, and Gaussian functions, will benefit from this discussion.

tjphop
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Homework Statement



Hi, the question is from a piece of coursework and before hand we were asked to find the Fourier transform G(K) of the function g(x)= e^(-∏(x^2)) (where g(x)= ∫ G(K)e^2∏ikx dx (integral from -∞ to ∞)). We were told to find G(K) by forming a differential equation in H(K), where H(K) is the Fourier transform for h(x)=g'(x), and using the fact that H(K)=2∏iK*G(K).
We had to show that G(K) = e^(-∏(k^2)) ∫ e^(-∏(x^2)) dx (integral from -∞ to ∞).

The question I am stuck on is the following:

Use the above results to show that ∫ e^(-∏(x^2) dx = 1 (integral from -∞ to ∞)

( i.e ∫ g(x) dx =1 (integral from -∞ to ∞) )

Homework Equations



Another previous part involved showing that the Fourier transform for l(x)=xg(x) was given by L(K) = (i/2∏) * d/dk ( G(K) ) , so this may be relevant too.


The Attempt at a Solution



I don't know how to proceed at all and have tried manipulating all the different expressions but to no avail. Any help would be much appreciated! Thanks
 
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Try integrating your expression for G(k) from k = -infinity to infinity. What does this give you?
 
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