Understanding Fourier Series Convergence: Common Confusions Addressed

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the convergence of Fourier series, specifically addressing common confusions regarding the calculation of terms and the handling of discontinuities. Participants clarify that the factor of -2/π can be factored out, and the terms in the brackets arise from calculating the average of the left and right limits at discontinuities, such as at -2π. The expression for the average value at jumps is derived using limits, ensuring accurate representation of the function's behavior at those points.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Fourier series and their convergence properties
  • Knowledge of limits and continuity in calculus
  • Familiarity with the concept of piecewise functions
  • Basic proficiency in mathematical notation and expressions
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Fourier series coefficients in detail
  • Learn about the Dirichlet conditions for Fourier series convergence
  • Explore the concept of pointwise vs. uniform convergence in series
  • Investigate the implications of discontinuities on Fourier series representation
USEFUL FOR

Mathematics students, educators, and anyone interested in advanced calculus or signal processing who seeks to deepen their understanding of Fourier series and their convergence behavior.

robertjford80
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Homework Statement



Screenshot2012-06-15at45935AM.png


This series is what dictates the graph above.

Screenshot2012-06-15at50422AM.png




The Attempt at a Solution



I don't understand what's going on. If they're using the series that i pasted below then why aren't they multiply each value in the brackets by -2/pi?

I also don't get why terms in the brackets are

[(-2pi + 0) + f(-2pi - 0)]

Where did they come from? Where does 1/2 come from that multiplies the brackets. very confused.
 
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robertjford80 said:
I don't understand what's going on. If they're using the series that i pasted below then why aren't they multiply each value in the brackets by -2/pi?

They could have. The ##\frac {-2}\pi## was just factored out.
I also don't get why terms in the brackets are

[(-2pi + 0) + f(-2pi - 0)]

Where did they come from? Where does 1/2 come from that multiplies the brackets. very confused.

Your function isn't defined at the jumps, like at ##-2\pi##. To get the average value at the jumps you need the average of the right and left limits:$$
\lim_{h\rightarrow 0+}\frac{f(-2\pi + h)+f(-2\pi -h)}{2}$$Those limits give the value of the function at ##-2\pi\ ##"coming from" the left and right. The expression ##f(-2\pi + 0)+ f(-2\pi -0)##is just a shorthand notation for the limits, and you add them and divide by 2 to get the average.
 

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