Calculating Coefficients of Modular Forms

In summary, for a given function f(z) and its periodicity f(z+1) = f(z), we can use the Fourier expansion f(z) = \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_n q^n with q = e^{2{\pi}inz} to calculate the coefficients c_n by using contour integration techniques and parametrizing along the half-plane.
  • #1
Parmenides
37
0
Given:

[tex] f\left(\frac{az + b}{cz + d}\right) = (cz + d)^kf(z)[/tex]

We can apply:

[tex]\left( \begin{array}{cc}
a & b \\
c & d\\
\end{array} \right)
= \left( \begin{array}{cc}
1 & 1 \\
0 & 1 \\
\end{array} \right)[/tex]

So that we arrive at the periodicity [itex] f(z+1) = f(z) [/itex]. This implies a Fourier expansion:

[tex]f(z) = \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_nq^n[/tex]
Where [itex]q = e^{2{\pi}inz}[/itex]

But how to calculate the coefficients [itex]c_n[/itex]? Scouring all over the internet, I've seen mention of contour integration and parametrizing along the Half-Plane, but I'm not even sure of the form of the integrand. Ideas would be most appreciated.
 
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  • #2
If we have f(z) = \sum_{n=0}^{\infty}c_n q^n with q = e^{2{\pi}inz}, then we can use the definition of a Fourier series to calculate the coefficients c_n. We have that c_n = \frac{1}{2{\pi}}\int_0^{2{\pi}}f(z)q^{-n}dz where q^{-n} = e^{-2{\pi}inz}. This integral can be solved using contour integration techniques. A possible parametrization is along the half-plane, and the integrand has the form f(z)q^{-n}.
 

FAQ: Calculating Coefficients of Modular Forms

What are coefficients of modular forms?

Coefficients of modular forms are the numbers that appear in the Fourier expansion of a modular form. They are coefficients of the q-expansion, where q is the modular parameter.

Why are coefficients of modular forms important?

Coefficients of modular forms play an important role in studying the properties and behavior of modular forms. They also have connections to other areas of mathematics such as number theory and algebraic geometry.

How are coefficients of modular forms computed?

There are various methods for computing coefficients of modular forms, including using the Fourier expansion, using the Hecke operators, and using the Ramanujan conjecture.

What is the significance of the first coefficient of a modular form?

The first coefficient, also known as the constant term, of a modular form is often used to determine the weight and level of the form. It can also provide information about the symmetry and special values of the form.

Can coefficients of modular forms be negative?

Yes, coefficients of modular forms can be negative. In fact, many important modular forms have negative coefficients, such as the modular discriminant and the modular j-function.

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