Summation of Fourier Series Problem: Plotting sm(x) for Multiple m Values

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In summary, a Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sine and cosine functions. It is commonly used in the fields of mathematics, physics, and engineering to analyze and approximate periodic phenomena. The summation of Fourier series refers to adding up the individual sine and cosine functions to obtain the original function, also known as Fourier analysis. To plot sm(x) for multiple m values, we need to determine the coefficients of the Fourier series and use them to calculate the values for different m values. This helps us understand the behavior of the function and approximate it. However, Fourier series has limitations as it can only be used for periodic functions with a finite number of discontinuities and the convergence can be slow for certain functions
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Jamin2112
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Homework Statement



So, on a Fourier Series problem I came up with

2/3 + (8/π2)∑(1/n2)(-1)ncos(nπx/2)

I'm supposed to Plot sm(x) versus x for m= 5, 10, 20

(m is the index of the summation, which starts at m=1)



Homework Equations



meh


The Attempt at a Solution



The problem is that I don't have a computer program to do this. So I was wondering if someone could give me a link to a site that would do this.
 
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  • #2
You might try looking up "gnuplot".
 

1. What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sine and cosine functions. It is named after the French mathematician and physicist Joseph Fourier and is commonly used in the fields of mathematics, physics, and engineering to analyze and approximate periodic phenomena.

2. What is the summation of Fourier series?

The summation of Fourier series refers to the process of adding up the individual sine and cosine functions in a Fourier series to obtain the original periodic function. This process is also known as Fourier analysis and is used to decompose complex periodic functions into simpler components for easier analysis.

3. How is sm(x) plotted for multiple m values?

To plot sm(x) for multiple m values, first, we need to determine the coefficients of the Fourier series using the given function. Then, we can use these coefficients to calculate the values of sm(x) for different values of m. Finally, we can plot these values on a graph to visualize the function for multiple m values.

4. What is the significance of plotting sm(x) for multiple m values?

Plotting sm(x) for multiple m values allows us to see how the function changes as we vary the upper limit of the summation in the Fourier series. This can help us understand the behavior of the function and identify any patterns or trends that may exist. It can also help us approximate the original function by using a finite number of terms in the Fourier series.

5. Are there any limitations to using a Fourier series?

While Fourier series can be a powerful tool for analyzing and approximating periodic functions, it does have its limitations. One major limitation is that it can only be used for functions that are periodic and have a finite number of discontinuities. Additionally, the convergence of Fourier series can be slow for certain functions, making it difficult to approximate them accurately.

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