# 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

Mentor
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

Mentor
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 said:
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.

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