Fourier Series of x/3: Finding Coefficients and Solutions

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the Fourier series of x/3, with one person initially believing it to be an odd function and thus having a0 and ak equal to 0. However, after correcting an error and considering the period to be from 0 to 2pi, the formula for bk is determined to be 1/L*integral from L to -L f(x) sin k pi x/L dx, with L being 2pi.
  • #1
Kuma
134
0

Homework Statement



I'm trying to find the Fourier series of x/3.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



So i believe that it is an odd function so a0, ak = 0. To find bk:

bk = 1/3pi int (x sin kx dx) from -pi to pi. From integration by parts
= 1/3pi ([x sin kx from -pi to pi]+ 1/k int (cos kx dx) from -pi to pi)
= 1/3pi [(pi sin k pi + pi sin -k pi) +1/k^2 (sin k pi - sin -k pi)]
I think that works out to be 0? Is that right?
 
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  • #2
Well, by inspection [itex]b_k[/itex] cannot all be zero, because then the whole function would be zero.
 
  • #3
Sorry I made a big mistake. Forgot to mention the period which is from 0 to 2pi. Also my integration by parts was wrong which resulted in bk being 0 when it shouldn't be.

First question, how do i do it with a period from 0 to 2pi. Is my integrand just from 0 to 2pi?
The formula for bk is 1/L*integral from L to -L f(x) sin k pi x/L dx

What is L in this case? 2pi??
 

FAQ: Fourier Series of x/3: Finding Coefficients and Solutions

What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sines and cosines. It is often used to analyze and approximate complicated functions by breaking them down into simpler components.

How is a Fourier series calculated?

A Fourier series for a function f(x) can be calculated using the formula:
f(x) = a0/2 + ∑n=1[ancos(nx) + bnsin(nx)]
where a0, an, and bn are coefficients that can be calculated using integrals.

What is the significance of x/3 in the Fourier series?

The x/3 in the Fourier series represents the frequency or wavelength of the function. In other words, it determines how many oscillations occur within a given interval.

How accurate is the Fourier series approximation?

The accuracy of the Fourier series approximation depends on the number of terms used in the series. The more terms that are included, the closer the approximation will be to the original function. However, in some cases, an infinite number of terms may be needed for a completely accurate approximation.

What are some real-world applications of Fourier series?

Fourier series have many applications in various fields, including signal processing, image and audio compression, and solving differential equations. They are also used in fields such as physics, engineering, and economics to analyze periodic phenomena and make predictions based on data.

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