Half range fourier cosine series

In summary, the conversation discusses finding the Fourier coefficients of a function f(x) defined on the interval 0<x<L. The function can be represented by a Fourier cosine series and the homework equations involve multiplying both sides by cos(n*pi*x/L) and integrating from L to 0. The attempt at a solution resulted in a_0 = L and a_n = 4L/n^2pi^2, but the correct answers are a_0 = L/2 and a_n(odd) = -4L/(n^2pi^2). The value for a_0 can be verified by shifting the function by L/2 to the left.
  • #1
v_pino
169
0

Homework Statement



The function f(x) is defined on the interval 0<x<L by f(x)=x. It can be represented by the Fourier cosine series

f(x) = a_0 + sum a_n cos(n*pi*x / L)

Find its Fourier coefficients a_0 and a_n.


Homework Equations



Multiply both sides by cos(n*pi*x / L) and integrate from L to 0. Then integration by parts.


The Attempt at a Solution



I got a_0 = L and a_n = 4L/ n^2 pi^2

The answers should be : a_0 = L/4 and a_n = -2L/n^2 pi^2 for n = odd and a_n=0 for n = even.

thanks!
 
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  • #2
The give answer is not quite correct, but neither is yours.
a_0 should be L/2 and a_n(odd) = -4L/(n^2 pi^2).
The value for a_0 can be seen to be correct by shifting the function by L/2 to the left. Then it is an odd function up to the shift upwards by L/2. So it can be represented by only sines, which explains that even values of the cosine are 0.

If you want us to find your mistake you have to post your calculation.
 

Related to Half range fourier cosine series

1. What is a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series?

A Half Range Fourier Cosine Series is a mathematical technique used to represent a periodic function as a sum of cosine functions with different frequencies and amplitudes. It is often used in signal processing and data analysis to approximate complex periodic functions.

2. How is a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series different from a full range series?

The main difference between a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series and a full range series is the range of values over which the function is defined. A full range series includes both positive and negative values, while a Half Range series only includes positive values. This can lead to simpler calculations and a more accurate representation of the function when using a Half Range series.

3. What is the formula for a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series?

The formula for a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series is given by: f(x) = a0 + ∑(ancos(nx)), where a0 is the average value of the function, an are the coefficients of the cosine terms, and n is the frequency of the cosine function.

4. What is the purpose of using a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series?

A Half Range Fourier Cosine Series is often used in signal processing and data analysis to approximate complex periodic functions. By representing a function as a sum of cosine terms, it becomes easier to analyze and manipulate the function. It also allows for the reconstruction of the original function using a finite number of terms, making it a useful tool in practical applications.

5. Are there any limitations to using a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series?

One limitation of using a Half Range Fourier Cosine Series is that it can only be used to approximate functions that are defined over a half range of values. This means that it may not be suitable for representing functions that have a wider range of values. Additionally, the accuracy of the approximation may decrease as the number of cosine terms used increases, so it may not be the best method for highly complex or rapidly changing functions.

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