How Do You Calculate Fourier Series for Functions Like sin(nπ)?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the Fourier series for functions, specifically starting with the example of sin(nπ) and later clarifying to f(x) = sin(x) over the interval (0, π). Participants express confusion about the concept of Fourier series and seek foundational understanding.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants question the nature of the function for which the Fourier series is being calculated, initially misinterpreting sin(nπ) as the focus. Clarification leads to discussing f(x) = sin(x) and the periodicity of functions. There are inquiries about the basic methods for solving Fourier series problems.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the structure of Fourier series and the coefficients involved. There is acknowledgment of the periodic nature of sin(x) and its representation in Fourier series form. However, the discussion remains open-ended with no definitive conclusions reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants express a need for a clearer understanding of Fourier series, indicating that previous attempts at solving related problems have not been successful. There is a mention of homework constraints and the importance of understanding the foundational concepts before progressing.

KAS90
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Homework Statement



find Fourier series for:
sinnπ=0
(n=0,+1,-1,+2,-2...)

I really can't understand how Fourier series works.. Like I tried solving problems..but till now, it didn't sink in my brain..
I just want 2 know the basic way of solving a problem regarding Fourier series..then it will be much easier to understand I guess..
Thanx in advance..
 
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KAS90 said:

Homework Statement



find Fourier series for:
sinnπ=0
(n=0,+1,-1,+2,-2...)

I really can't understand how Fourier series works.. Like I tried solving problems..but till now, it didn't sink in my brain..
I just want 2 know the basic way of solving a problem regarding Fourier series..then it will be much easier to understand I guess..
Thanx in advance..


What's the function that you want to find the Fourier series for? sin (n*pi) = 0 for all integers, as you point out, but it's otherwise not very interesting. Is the function f(x) = 0?
If so, all of the coefficients in the Fourier series would be 0.

Is there more to this problem that you haven't shown us?
 
Mark44 said:
What's the function that you want to find the Fourier series for? sin (n*pi) = 0 for all integers, as you point out, but it's otherwise not very interesting. Is the function f(x) = 0?
If so, all of the coefficients in the Fourier series would be 0.

Is there more to this problem that you haven't shown us?
hi mark
sorry 4 being late..plus giving a completely wrong question..
ok..
the I realize the problem is for example :
f(x)= sinx
0<x<pi
it's a problem I want to understand like how is it really solved?
 
A Fourier series for a function f(x) is an infinite sum such that
[tex]f(x)= \sum_{m=0}^\infty A_n cos(nx)+ B_n sin(nx)[/tex] (or other (x/L) or whatever inside the trig functions).

Of course, the right side of that is periodic with period [itex]2\pi[/itex] so if f is not itself periodic, that can only be true on some interval (which is one reason why you might need that "/L" to alter the interval).

But if f(x)= sin(x) is not only periodic with period [itex]2\pi[/itex], it is already of that form and it is obvious that [itex]A_n= 0[/itex] for all n, while [itex]B_1= 1[/itex] and [itex]B_n= 0[/itex] for all n greater than 1.

More generally, if f(x) is integrable on the interval [0, L], then on that interval [itex]f(x)= A_n cos(2n x\pi/L)+ B_n sin(2n x\pi/L)[/itex] where
[itex]A_0= \frac{1}{L}\int_0^L f(x) dx[/itex]
[itex]A_n= \frac{1}{2L}\int_0^L f(x)cos(2n x/L)[/itex]
for n> 0 and
[itex]B_n= \frac{1}{2L}\int_0^L f(x)sin(2n x/L)[/itex].
 
HallsofIvy said:
A Fourier series for a function f(x) is an infinite sum such that
[tex]f(x)= \sum_{m=0}^\infty A_n cos(nx)+ B_n sin(nx)[/tex] (or other (x/L) or whatever inside the trig functions).

Of course, the right side of that is periodic with period [itex]2\pi[/itex] so if f is not itself periodic, that can only be true on some interval (which is one reason why you might need that "/L" to alter the interval).

But if f(x)= sin(x) is not only periodic with period [itex]2\pi[/itex], it is already of that form and it is obvious that [itex]A_n= 0[/itex] for all n, while [itex]B_1= 1[/itex] and [itex]B_n= 0[/itex] for all n greater than 1.

More generally, if f(x) is integrable on the interval [0, L], then on that interval [itex]f(x)= A_n cos(2n x\pi/L)+ B_n sin(2n x\pi/L)[/itex] where
[itex]A_0= \frac{1}{L}\int_0^L f(x) dx[/itex]
[itex]A_n= \frac{1}{2L}\int_0^L f(x)cos(2n x/L)[/itex]
for n> 0 and
[itex]B_n= \frac{1}{2L}\int_0^L f(x)sin(2n x/L)[/itex].

THANX a lot Hallsofivy..
u were a lot of help..as usual lol..
 

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