Can a Suitable Small Angle Formula Solve This Summation Problem?

In summary, the conversation is discussing the function S_N(x) which is equal to 4/pi multiplied by a summation from n=1 to infinity of sin((2n-1)x) divided by (2n-1). The goal is to find the value of this sum at a specific point, S_N(pi/2N), by using a suitable small angle formula. The attempt at a solution involves rewriting S_N(x) as an integral and using the approximation sin(x)≈x for small values of x. However, the person is unsure of how to proceed with this problem and is seeking help.
  • #1
ghostyc
26
0

Homework Statement



[tex]S_N(x)= \frac{4}{\pi} \sum_{n=1}^{\infty} \frac{\sin ((2 n-1)x)}{2 n-1}[/tex]

By considering a suitable small angle formula show that the value of the sum at this point is

[tex]S_N \Big( \frac{\pi}{2 N} \Big)=\frac{2}{\pi} \int_0^{\pi} \frac{\sin (\mu)}{\mu} \; d{\mu}[/tex]


Homework Equations



i have no idea how to get the suitable small angle formula working with this problem


The Attempt at a Solution



I have shown that

[tex]S_N(x) [/tex]

can be written as

[tex]S_N(x)=\frac{2}{\pi} \int_0^{x} \frac{\sin (2 N t)}{\sin (t) } \; d{t}[/tex]

my guess for suitable small angle formula is

[tex]\sin (x) \approx x [/tex] when x is small


Thank you for any help
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
anyone got any ideas? :P
 

FAQ: Can a Suitable Small Angle Formula Solve This Summation Problem?

1. What is the small angle formula problem?

The small angle formula problem is a mathematical equation used to calculate the approximate value of an angle when its size is very small. It is often used in physics and engineering to simplify complex calculations.

2. How is the small angle formula derived?

The small angle formula is derived from the Taylor series expansion of the trigonometric function sine (sin) and cosine (cos) for small values of x. It is based on the assumption that the arc length of a circle is equal to the chord length when the angle is small.

3. What is the small angle approximation?

The small angle approximation is a simplification of the small angle formula problem, where the sine and cosine functions are approximated by their first-order Taylor series terms. This approximation is valid when the angle is very small, typically less than 10 degrees.

4. In what applications is the small angle formula problem used?

The small angle formula problem is commonly used in physics and engineering, specifically in fields such as optics, mechanics, and astronomy. It is used to calculate the deflection of light, the trajectory of projectiles, and the motion of celestial bodies.

5. Are there any limitations to the small angle formula?

Yes, the small angle formula has limitations as it is only accurate for small angles. It becomes less accurate as the angle increases, and for angles larger than 10 degrees, alternative methods should be used. Additionally, the formula assumes a perfect circular shape, which may not always be the case in real-life scenarios.

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