Integral of sin(n*pi*x/L)cos(m*pi*x/L): Is n=m a Requirement?

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In summary, the "n=m" requirement in the integral of sin(n*pi*x/L)cos(m*pi*x/L) signifies that the sine and cosine functions have the same frequency, resulting in a simpler and more easily solvable integral. This requirement can be relaxed or eliminated, but it may result in a more complex integral that may not have a finite value. The values of n and m determine the frequency of the sine and cosine functions, with the same values resulting in a simpler integral and a finite value. The "n=m" requirement is related to the period of the function, ensuring a well-defined period. However, it cannot be extended to other trigonometric functions, as each function has its own unique requirements for convergence and simpl
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chota
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if i have to find the integral of

sin(n*pi*x/L) * cos(m*pi*x/L) between 0<=x<=L

is it true that this integral will be 0 every where except where n=m?

please and thank you.
 
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  • #2
Is there a trig identity that will simplify this for us a little bit?

[tex]sin(u)cos(v)=\frac{1}{2}\left[sin(u+v)+sin(u-v)\right][/tex]

With this trig identity, do you suppose that the integral will be equal to zero when n is not equal to m? When n is equal to m?
 

1. What is the significance of the "n=m" requirement in the integral of sin(n*pi*x/L)cos(m*pi*x/L)?

The "n=m" requirement in this integral signifies that the sine and cosine functions have the same frequency, which results in a simpler and more easily solvable integral. It also ensures that the integral is convergent, meaning it has a finite value.

2. Can the "n=m" requirement be relaxed or eliminated in the integral?

Yes, the "n=m" requirement can be relaxed or eliminated, but this will result in a more complex integral that may not have a finite value. It is also important to note that the integral may not accurately represent the original function if the "n=m" requirement is not met.

3. How does the value of n and m affect the integral of sin(n*pi*x/L)cos(m*pi*x/L)?

The values of n and m determine the frequency of the sine and cosine functions, respectively. If the values are different, the resulting integral will be more complex and may not have a finite value. If the values are the same, the integral will be simpler and have a finite value.

4. What is the relationship between the "n=m" requirement and the period of the function?

The "n=m" requirement is related to the period of the function in that it ensures that the period of the sine and cosine functions are the same. This results in a simpler integral and a well-defined period of the overall function. If the "n=m" requirement is not met, the period of the function may not be well-defined.

5. Can the "n=m" requirement be extended to other trigonometric functions in the integral?

No, the "n=m" requirement only applies to the sine and cosine functions in this particular integral. It cannot be extended to other trigonometric functions, as their frequencies may not be related in the same way as sine and cosine. Each function will have its own unique requirements for convergence and simplification in an integral.

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