How to Solve the Heat Problem in the Disk using Fourier Series?

In summary, the function $f(\theta) = |\theta|$ can be expressed as a formal series solution for the corresponding heat problem in the disk. To find the error in $u(r,\theta)$, the partial sum of the series can be evaluated to a certain degree. It is possible to use the integral test to determine the error in $u(r,\theta)$ and it can also be used to evaluate $u\left(\frac{1}{2},\pi\right)$ to two decimals. Additionally, it can be shown that $u\left(r,\pm\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = \frac{\pi}{2}$.
  • #1
Dustinsfl
2,281
5
Suppose $f(\theta) = |\theta|$ for $-\pi < \theta < \pi$.
Find the formal series solution of the corresponding heat problem in the disk.
How many terms of the series will give $u(r,\theta)$ with an error $< 0.1$ throughout the disk?
Evaluate $u\left(\frac{1}{2},\pi\right)$ to two decimals.
Show that $u\left(r,\pm\frac{\pi}{2}\right) = \frac{\pi}{2}$.
\smallskipI know from previous that
$$
f(\theta) = \frac{\pi}{2} - \frac{4}{\pi}\sum_{n = 1}^{\infty}\frac{1}{(2n - 1)^2}\cos (2n - 1)\theta.
$$

I am not sure what I am supposed to do though.
 
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  • #2
We know from previous that
$$
f(\theta) = \frac{\pi}{2} - \frac{4}{\pi}\sum_{n = 1}^{\infty}\frac{1}{(2n - 1)^2}\cos (2n - 1)\theta.
$$
The polar form of $f$ is
$$
u(r,\theta) = \frac{\pi}{2} - \frac{4}{\pi}\sum_{n = 1}^{\infty}\frac{r^{2n - 1}}{(2n - 1)^2}\cos(2n - 1)\theta.
$$
Take $r < 1$ and evaluate the partial sum to $k$.
Then $\frac{\pi}{2} - \frac{4}{\pi}\sum\limits_{n = 1}^k\frac{r^{2k - 1}}{(2k - 1)^2}\cos(2k - 1)\theta$.

How can I use the integral test now?
 
Last edited:

FAQ: How to Solve the Heat Problem in the Disk using Fourier Series?

What is a Fourier series?

A Fourier series is a mathematical representation of a periodic function as a sum of sine and cosine functions. It is named after French mathematician Joseph Fourier, who first introduced the concept in the early 19th century.

What is the purpose of a Fourier series?

The purpose of a Fourier series is to approximate a periodic function with a finite number of terms. This allows for easier analysis and calculations of complex functions, and can also be used to solve differential equations.

How is a Fourier series expressed?

A Fourier series is typically expressed as a sum of trigonometric functions in the form of a + bsin(\theta) + ccos(\theta). The coefficients a, b, and c are determined by the function being approximated and the interval over which it is being approximated.

What is the significance of |\theta| in a Fourier series?

The |\theta| in a Fourier series represents the phase angle, which determines the starting point of the trigonometric functions in the series. It is important in accurately representing the periodic function being approximated.

What are some applications of Fourier series?

Fourier series have numerous applications in various fields, including signal processing, image and sound compression, and solving partial differential equations. They are also used in fields such as astronomy, physics, and engineering to analyze and interpret data.

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