A square wave contains only odd harmonics due to its odd symmetry, which results in the cancellation of even harmonics during Fourier expansion. The Fourier series representation of a square wave is given by the formula 4/π(sin(x) + sin(3x)/3 + sin(5x)/5 + ...), confirming that only odd harmonics contribute to its shape. Even harmonics are effectively destructive in this context, leading to their absence in the square wave's harmonic content. The duty cycle of the square wave does influence the presence of harmonics, but primarily, the odd nature of the waveform dictates the harmonic structure.
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likephysics said:Why does a square wave contain only odd harmonics of the fundamental?
If the even harmonics are low, how low are they.
What happens to the even harmonics.