Integrating Fourier Transform of Exponential Function

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around integrating the Fourier transform of an exponential function, specifically the integral ∫f(x) * exp(-i§x) dx from -∞ to ∞, where f(x) = exp(-sgn(x)). Participants are exploring the integration of this function and its implications in the context of Fourier analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to break the function into two pieces for integration but encounters difficulties. They also consider integrating exp(-i§x) * exp(-sgn(x)) but express uncertainty about its feasibility. Other participants question the meaning of the symbol § and clarify its definition as a constant related to the period of the function.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying terms and exploring the nature of the function f(x). Some guidance has been offered regarding the periodicity of the function and the distinction between Fourier Series and Fourier transforms, but no consensus has been reached on the best approach to take.

Contextual Notes

There is a question about the periodicity of the function f(x), which affects the choice between using Fourier Series or Fourier transforms. The original poster's approach may be influenced by assumptions about the function's behavior over its domain.

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I am trying to solve this Fourier problem where I have to integrate
∫f(x) * exp(-i§x) dx from -∞ to ∞ , where f(x) = exp(-sgn(x))
I tried breaking the function into two pieces where x is from -∞ to 0 and from 0 to ∞ where f(x) would then be exp(x) and exp(-x) and integrating two functions, but that didn't seem to be working. The the other way I can think of is trying to integrate
exp(-i§x) * exp(-sgn(x)), but I'm not sure if that is possible. Could anyone please give me a hint?
 
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What is § ? a constant, an operator, or a function?
 
it is (n*PI)/L ,where 2L is one period which I just treat as a constant
 
L is one period of what? If your function, f, is periodic, then you need only integrate over one period. In that case, you are talking about a Fourier Series, not a Fourier transform and probably would find it easier to use sin(\frac{n\pi}{L}t) and cos(\frac{n\pi}{L}t)[/itex] rather than complex exponentials. <br /> <br /> If is not periodic, then you need the Fourier transform \int_{-infty}^\infty f(x)e^{-ixt}dt.
 

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