What does the exponential term mean in Fourier transform

[ramdas]

We know that Fourier Transform F(W) of function f(t) is summation from -infinity to +infinity product of f(t) and exp^{-j w t}Here, what does the exponential term mean?

 

[DrClaude]

Are you familiar with Fourier series? Because the exponential is simply the (complex) generalization of the sine and cosine that appears in the Fourier series.

 

[ramdas]

Are you familiar with Fourier series? Because the exponential is simply the (complex) generalization of the sine and cosine that appears in the Fourier series.

sir,Question was asked to me at time of interview.

 

[Mark44]

Are you familiar with Fourier series? Because the exponential is simply the (complex) generalization of the sine and cosine that appears in the Fourier series.

sir,Question was asked to me at time of interview.

DrClaude didn't ask where the question came from. He asked whether you were familiar with Fourier series, and gave an explanation for the meaning of the exponential factor in the summation/integral.