Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U.

Sarkar

Periodic Functions
A real valued function 𝑓(𝑥) is said to be periodic if there exists a least positive real number 𝑇
such that 𝑓 𝑥 + 𝑇 = 𝑓(𝑥) for all values of 𝑥. For example 𝑓(𝑥) = sin 𝑥 is a periodic function with
period 2𝜋 because sin(2𝜋 + 𝑥) = sin 𝑥. Moreover, if 𝑓(𝑥) be a periodic function with period 𝑇 then
𝑓(𝑎𝑥) is a periodic function with period 𝑇/𝑎.
Fourier series of a real valued function
Definition 1: Let 𝑓(𝑥) be defined and integrable in the interval (−𝑇, 𝑇). Extend the function to a
periodic function of period 2𝑇 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝑇 = 𝑓(𝑥) for all values of 𝑥. Then the Fourier
series of 𝑓(𝑥) is given by
∞
𝑎0 𝑛𝜋𝑥 𝑛𝜋𝑥
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos + 𝑏𝑛 sin
2 𝑇 𝑇
𝑛=1
𝑎0 𝜋𝑥 2𝜋𝑥 3𝜋𝑥 𝜋𝑥 2𝜋𝑥 3𝜋𝑥
= + 𝑎1 cos + 𝑎2 cos + 𝑎3 cos + ⋯ + 𝑏1 sin + 𝑏2 sin + 𝑏3 sin +⋯
2 𝑇 𝑇 𝑇 𝑇 𝑇 𝑇
where 𝑎𝑛 , 𝑏𝑛 are called Fourier coefficients and are determined by (Euler formula)
1 𝑇
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝑇 −𝑇
1 𝑇 𝑛𝜋𝑥
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑑𝑥
𝑇 −𝑇 𝑇
1 𝑇 𝑛𝜋𝑥
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑑𝑥
𝑇 −𝑇 𝑇
Definition 2: Let 𝑓(𝑥) be defined and integrable in the interval (−𝜋, 𝜋). Extend the function to a
periodic function of period 2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥) for all values of 𝑥. Then the Fourier
series of 𝑓(𝑥) is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
𝑎0
= + 𝑎1 cos 𝑥 + 𝑎2 cos 2𝑥 + 𝑎3 cos 3𝑥 + ⋯ + 𝑏1 sin 𝑥 + 𝑏2 sin 2𝑥 + 𝑏3 sin 3𝑥 + ⋯
2
where
1 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
Definition 3: Let 𝑓(𝑥) be defined and integrable in the interval (0, 2𝜋). Extend the function to a
periodic function of period 2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥) for all values of 𝑥. Then the Fourier
series of 𝑓(𝑥) is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
𝑎0
= + 𝑎1 cos 𝑥 + 𝑎2 cos 2𝑥 + 𝑎3 cos 3𝑥 + ⋯ + 𝑏1 sin 𝑥 + 𝑏2 sin 2𝑥 + 𝑏3 sin 3𝑥 + ⋯
2
where
1 2𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
1 2𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
1 2𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

Odd function and Even function

 Even Function: A real valued function 𝑓(𝑥) is said to be even if 𝑓(−𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥) . For
example,
(a) cos 𝑥 , sec 𝑥, etc.
(b) Any constant or even power of 𝑥 such as 𝑥 2 , 𝑥 4 etc.
 Odd Function: A real valued function 𝑓(𝑥) is said to be odd if 𝑓 −𝑥 = −𝑓(𝑥) . For
example,
(a) sin 𝑥 , tan 𝑥 etc.
(b) odd power of 𝑥 such as 𝑥, 𝑥 3 etc.

We use the following rule to obtain Fourier series of an odd or even function:

𝑎 0 if 𝑓 𝑥 is odd
𝑎
𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
−𝑎 2 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 if 𝑓 𝑥 is even
0

Fourier series of an Odd Function

If 𝑓(𝑥) is an odd function in the interval −𝜋, 𝜋 then 𝑎0 = 0, 𝑎𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
Then its Fourier series is given by
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
Fourier series of an Even Function
If 𝑓(𝑥) is an even function in the interval (−𝜋, 𝜋), then 𝑏𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
2 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛 =1
Note:
(i) sin 𝑛𝜋 = 0
(ii) cos 𝑛𝜋 = (−1)𝑛
(iii) Formulae: [Please follow ILATE Rule for integration by parts]
 I = Inverse function
 L = Logarithmic function
 A = Algebraic function
 T = Trigonometric function
 E = Exponential function

𝑑𝑥 𝑛 𝑑𝑢
𝑑𝑥
= 𝑛𝑥 𝑛 −1 𝑢𝑣𝑑𝑥 = 𝑢 𝑣𝑑𝑥 − 𝑑𝑥
𝑣𝑑𝑥 𝑑𝑥
cos 𝑎𝑥 sin 𝑎𝑥
sin 𝑎𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − 𝑎
cos 𝑎𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑎
𝜋 2𝜋
0
cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 0 0
sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 0
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

Example 1: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.

Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 to a periodic function with period 2𝜋
by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
1 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
Since 𝑓(𝑥) is an odd function so 𝑎0 = 0, 𝑎𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋 2 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0
Therefore,
𝜋
2 𝜋 2 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − +
𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0
2 𝜋 cos 𝑛𝜋 2(−1)𝑛+1
= − =
𝜋 𝑛 𝑛
Therefore, the required Fourier series is
∞
(−1)𝑛 +1 sin 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥 sin 4𝑥
2 sin 𝑛𝑥 = 2 − + − +⋯
𝑛 1 2 3 4
𝑛 =1

Example 2: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.

Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 to a periodic function with period
2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
1 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
1 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋
Since 𝑓(𝑥) is an even function so 𝑏𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋 2 𝜋 2 2𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 3
𝜋
2 𝜋 2 𝜋 2 2 𝑥 2 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝜋
2𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 0 0 𝑛
4 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝜋 4(−1)𝑛
= − =
𝜋𝑛 𝑛 𝑛2 0 𝑛2
Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞
𝜋2 (−1)𝑛 𝜋2 cos 𝑥 cos 2𝑥 cos 3𝑥 cos 4𝑥
+4 2
cos 𝑛𝑥 = −4 − + − +⋯
3 𝑛 3 12 22 32 42
𝑛=1
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

Dirichlet’s Conditions
Although a function, defined in a finite interval can be expanded to its Fourier series, the
function may not be equal to its Fourier series. The conditions under which a function is equal to its
Fourier series are due to Dirichlet.
Let a function 𝑓(𝑥) be defined and in the interval [−𝑇, 𝑇]. Then 𝑓(𝑥) will be equal to its
Fourier series if it satisfies any of the following two conditions:

(i) 𝑓(𝑥) is bounded in [−𝑇, 𝑇] and the interval [−𝑇, 𝑇] can be broken into a finite number of
sub-intervals such that 𝑓(𝑥) is monotonic on each of the sub-interval.
(ii) 𝑓(𝑥) has a finite number of infinite discontinuity in [−𝑇, 𝑇] and when arbitrary small
neighbourhood of these points are excluded then 𝑓(𝑥) becomes bounded in the remaining
part and this remaining part can be decomposed into a finite number of sub-intervals such
that 𝑓(𝑥) is monotonic in each of the sub-interval. Moreover the improper integral
𝑇
−𝑇
𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 is absolutely convergent.
The above two conditions are known as Dirichlet’s conditions.
Thus, when a function 𝑓(𝑥) is defined in the interval [−𝑇, 𝑇], then
 if 𝑓(𝑥) is continuous, bounded and monotonic in the whole interval [−𝑇, 𝑇],
𝑓 𝑥 = 𝐹. 𝑆.
 if 𝑓(𝑥) is discontinuous at 𝑎 ∈ [−𝑇, 𝑇],
1
lim 𝑓(𝑥) + lim 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐹. 𝑆.
2 𝑥 →𝑎−0 𝑥 →𝑎+0
1 1 𝜋
Example 3: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 and hence prove 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .
Solution: From example 1, we have the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 as
∞
(−1)𝑛+1 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥
2 sin 𝑛𝑥 = 2 sin 𝑥 − + −⋯
𝑛 2 3
𝑛=1
We see that the given function is bounded, continuous and increasing in −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋. So it satisfies
Dirichlet’s condition. Therefore, we have
sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥
𝑓(𝑥) = 2 sin 𝑥 − 2
+ 3
− ⋯ , i.e., 𝑥 = 2 sin 𝑥 − 2
+ 3
−⋯ (1)
𝜋
Putting 𝑥 = 2
in (1) we get
3𝜋
𝜋 𝜋 sin 𝜋 sin 1 1 𝜋
2
2
= 2 sin 2 − 2
+ 3
− ⋯ , i.e., 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .

−𝑘, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0 1 1 𝜋
Example 4: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = and hence prove 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .
𝑘, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
−𝑘, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
Solution: Clearly, the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = is an odd function in the interval
𝑘, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
−𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋. Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
where
2 𝜋 2𝑘 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑘 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = −
𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 0
2𝑘 2𝑘
= − cos 𝑛𝜋 + cos 0 = (−1)𝑛 +1 + 1
𝜋𝑛 𝜋𝑛
Thus the Fourier series (F.S.) is
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

∞
2𝑘 (−1)𝑛+1 + 1 4𝑘 sin 3𝑥 sin 5𝑥
sin 𝑛𝑥 = sin 𝑥 + + +⋯
𝜋 𝑛 𝜋 3 5
𝑛=1
We see that the given function is bounded, continuous and monotonic everywhere except at 𝑥 = 0
where it has a finite discontinuity.
Now,
1 1 1
lim 𝑓(𝑥) + lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim −𝑘 + lim 𝑘 = −𝑘 + 𝑘 = 0
2 𝑥→0− 𝑥 →0+ 2 𝑥→0− 𝑥→0+ 2
Therefore, according to Dirichlet’s condition, we have
−𝑘, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
4𝑘 sin 3𝑥 sin 5𝑥
𝜋
sin 𝑥 + 3
+ 5
+ ⋯ = 0, 𝑥=0 (1)
𝑘, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
𝜋
Putting 𝑥 = 2 in (1) we get
3𝜋 5𝜋
4𝑘 𝜋 sin sin 1 1 𝜋
2 2
𝜋
sin 2 + 3
+ 5
+⋯ = 𝑘, i.e., 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .
−𝜋, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0 1 1 𝜋
Example 5: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = and hence prove 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .
𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
−𝜋, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
Solution: Clearly, the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = is an odd function in the interval
𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
−𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋 as 𝑓 −𝑥 = −𝑓 𝑥 . Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
Where
𝜋
2 2𝜋 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = − 𝑘 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
0 𝜋 𝜋 𝑛 0
2 2
= − cos 𝑛𝜋 + cos 0 = (−1)𝑛+1 + 1
𝑛 𝑛
Thus the Fourier series (F.S.) is

∞
(−1)𝑛+1 + 1 sin 3𝑥 sin 5𝑥
2 sin 𝑛𝑥 = 4 sin 𝑥 + + +⋯
𝑛 3 5
𝑛=1
We see that the given function is bounded, continuous and monotonic everywhere except at 𝑥 = 0
where it has a finite discontinuity.
Now,
1 1 1
lim 𝑓(𝑥) + lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim −𝜋 + lim 𝜋 = −𝜋 + 𝜋 = 0
2 𝑥→0− 𝑥 →0+ 2 𝑥→0− 𝑥 →0+ 2
Therefore, according to Dirichlet’s condition, we have
−𝜋, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
sin 3𝑥 sin 5𝑥
4 sin 𝑥 + 3 + 5 + ⋯ = 0, 𝑥=0 (1)
𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
𝜋
Putting 𝑥 = in (1) we get
2
3𝜋 5𝜋
𝜋 sin sin 1 1 𝜋
2 2
4 sin 2 + 3
+ 5
+⋯ = 𝜋, i.e., 1 − 3 + 5 − ⋯ = 4 .
𝜋 − 𝑥, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0 1 1 1 𝜋2
Example 6: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = and prove 12 + 32 + 52 + ⋯ = 8 .
𝜋 + 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
𝜋 − 𝑥, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
Solution: Clearly, the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = is an even function in the interval
𝜋 + 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
−𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋 as 𝑓 −𝑥 = 𝑓 𝑥 . Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
Where
2 𝜋 2 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = (𝜋 + 𝑥)𝑑𝑥 = 3𝜋
𝜋 0 𝜋 0
2 𝜋 2 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝜋 + 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0
2𝜋 𝜋 2 𝜋 2 𝜋
= cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 0
2 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝜋 𝜋
sin 𝑛𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝜋 2
= − 𝑑𝑥 = = 2 (−1)𝑛 − 1
𝜋 𝑛 0 0 𝑛 𝜋𝑛 𝑛 0 𝜋𝑛
Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞
3𝜋 2 (−1)𝑛 − 1 3𝜋 4 cos 𝑥 cos 3𝑥 cos 5𝑥
+ 2
cos 𝑛𝑥 = − + + +⋯
2 𝜋 𝑛 2 𝜋 12 32 52
𝑛=1
We see that the given function is bounded, continuous and monotonic everywhere except at 𝑥 = 0
where it has a finite discontinuity.
Now,
1 1 1
lim 𝑓(𝑥) + lim 𝑓(𝑥) = lim (𝜋 − 𝑥) + lim (𝜋 + 𝑥) = 𝜋 + 𝜋 = 𝜋
2 𝑥→0− 𝑥 →0+ 2 𝑥→0− 𝑥→0+ 2
Therefore, according to Dirichlet’s condition, we have
𝜋 − 𝑥, −𝜋 ≤ 𝑥 < 0
3𝜋 4 cos 𝑥 cos 3𝑥 cos 5𝑥
− + + + ⋯ = 𝜋 , 𝑥=0 (1)
2 𝜋 12 32 52
𝜋 + 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 ≤ 𝜋
Putting 𝑥 = 0 in (1) we get
3𝜋 4 1 1 1 1 1 1 𝜋2
2
−𝜋 12
+ 32 + 52 + ⋯ = 𝜋, i.e., 12 + 32 + 52 + ⋯ = 8
.

Half Range Sine Series

If 𝑓(𝑥) is defined on (0, 𝜋) , we extend the domain of definition to (−𝜋, 0] by 𝑓(−𝑥) =
−𝑓(𝑥) so that 𝑓(𝑥) becomes odd in the interval (−𝜋, 𝜋). Then 𝑎0 = 0, 𝑎𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
Therefore, the Fourier series will be
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
Half Range Cosine Series
If 𝑓(𝑥) is defined on (0, 𝜋), we extend the domain of definition to (−𝜋, 0] by 𝑓(−𝑥) = 𝑓(𝑥)
so that 𝑓(𝑥) becomes even in the interval (−𝜋, 𝜋). Then 𝑏𝑛 = 0 and
2 𝜋
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
2 𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0
Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

Example 7: Find the half range Fourier sine series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 in the interval – 𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0 by defining
𝑓 −𝑥 = −𝑓(𝑥) so that it becomes odd as well as a periodic function with period 2𝜋 by virtue of
𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its half range Fourier sine series is given by
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
where
𝜋
2 𝜋 2 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 2 𝜋 cos 𝑛𝜋 2(−1)𝑛+1
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − + = − =
𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛
Therefore, the required series is
∞
(−1)𝑛 +1 sin 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥 sin 4𝑥
2 sin 𝑛𝑥 = 2 − + − +⋯
𝑛 1 2 3 4
𝑛 =1

Example 8: Find the half range Fourier cosine series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 in the interval – 𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0 by
defining 𝑓 −𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥) so that it becomes even as well as a periodic function with period 2𝜋 by
virtue of 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its half range Fourier cosine series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛 =1
where
2 𝜋 2 𝜋 2 2𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 3
𝜋 𝜋
2 2 4(−1)𝑛
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝑛2
Therefore, the required series is given by
∞
𝜋2 (−1)𝑛 𝜋2 cos 𝑥 cos 2𝑥 cos 3𝑥
+4 2
cos 𝑛𝑥 = −4 − + +⋯
3 𝑛 3 12 22 32
𝑛=1

Example 9: Find the half range Fourier cosine series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 in the interval – 𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0 by defining
𝑓 −𝑥 = 𝑓(𝑥) so that it becomes even as well as a periodic function with period 2𝜋 by virtue of
𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its half range Fourier cosine series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛 =1
where
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
2 2 2 𝑥2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥𝑑𝑥 = × =𝜋
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 2 0
𝜋
2 𝜋 2 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝜋 cos 0 2
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = + = − = (−1)𝑛 − 1
𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0 𝜋 𝑛2 𝑛2 𝜋𝑛2
Therefore, the required cosine series is
∞
𝜋 2 (−1)𝑛 − 1 𝜋 4 cos 𝑥 cos 3𝑥
+ 2
cos 𝑛𝑥 = − + +⋯
2 𝜋 𝑛 2 𝜋 12 32
𝑛=1
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

Example 10: Find the half range Fourier sine series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 in the interval – 𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0 by defining
𝑓 −𝑥 = −𝑓(𝑥) so that it becomes odd as well as a periodic function with period 2𝜋 by virtue of
𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its half range Fourier sine series is given by
∞

𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑛=1
where
2 𝜋 2 𝜋
𝑛+1
𝑏𝑛 =
𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝜋 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 2[ −1 + 1]
𝜋 0 𝜋 0
Therefore, the required series is given by
∞
𝑛 +1
2 [ −1 + 1] sin 𝑛𝑥 = 2 sin 𝑥 + sin 3𝑥 + sin 5𝑥 + ⋯
𝑛=1

Miscellaneous Examples
Example 11: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 2𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 2𝜋 to a periodic function with period 2𝜋
by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋
1 1 1 𝑥2 1 4𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥𝑑𝑥 = = × = 2𝜋
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 2 0
𝜋 2
1 2𝜋
1 2𝜋
1 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 2𝜋
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = + =0
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0
1 2𝜋
1 2𝜋
1 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 2𝜋 2
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − + 2
=−
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 𝑛 0 𝑛
Therefore, the required Fourier series is
∞
2𝜋 sin 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥 sin 4𝑥
−2 = 𝜋−2 + + + +⋯
2 𝑛 1 2 3 4
𝑛=1

Example 12: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.

Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 to a periodic function with period
2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋
1 1 2
1 𝑥3 1 8𝜋 3 8𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = = × =
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 3 0
𝜋 3 3
2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋
1 1 2
1 𝑥 2 sin 𝑛𝑥 2𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 0 0 𝑛
2𝜋 2𝜋
2 2 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 4
=− 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − − + =
𝑛𝜋 0 𝑛𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0 𝑛2
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋 2𝜋
1 1 2
1 𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 2𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − + 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 0 𝜋 0 𝜋 𝑛 0 0 𝑛
2𝜋 2𝜋
4𝜋 2 4𝜋 2 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 4𝜋 4
=− + 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − + − + =− −
𝑛 𝑛𝜋 0 𝑛 𝑛𝜋 𝑛 𝑛2 0 𝑛 𝑛2
Therefore, the required Fourier series is
∞
8𝜋 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝜋 1
+4 2
− + sin 𝑛𝑥
3 𝑛 𝑛 𝑛2
𝑛=1
Example 13: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.
Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 to a periodic function with
period 2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
1 1 2
1 1 22 2
2 𝑥3 2𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = (𝑥 + 𝑥 )𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥𝑑𝑥 + 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = =
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 0 𝜋 3 0
3
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
1 1 1 1 𝜋 2
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋
𝜋
2 2
4(−1)𝑛
= 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝑛2
𝜋
1 1 𝜋 1 𝜋 1 𝜋 2
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋
2 𝜋 2(−1)𝑛 +1
= 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝑛
Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞
𝜋2 2 −1 𝑛 −1 𝑛+1
+2 cos 𝑛𝑥 + sin 𝑛𝑥
3 𝑛2 𝑛
𝑛=1

𝜋2 sin 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥 cos 𝑥 cos 2𝑥 cos 3𝑥

= +2 − + −⋯ −2 − + −⋯
3 1 2 3 12 22 32

Example 14: Find the Fourier series of 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 − 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋.

Solution: We extend the given function 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥 + 𝑥 2 , −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 𝜋 to a periodic function with
period 2𝜋 by defining 𝑓 𝑥 + 2𝜋 = 𝑓(𝑥). Then its Fourier series is given by
∞
𝑎0
+ 𝑎𝑛 cos 𝑛𝑥 + 𝑏𝑛 sin 𝑛𝑥
2
𝑛=1
where
𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋 𝜋
1 1 2
1 1 2
2 2
2 𝑥3 2𝜋 2
𝑎0 = 𝑓 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = (𝑥 − 𝑥 )𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥𝑑𝑥 − 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − 𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = − =
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 0 𝜋 3 0
3
𝜋
1 1 𝜋 1 𝜋 1 𝜋 2
𝑎𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 − 𝑥 2 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 − 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋
2 𝜋 2 4(−1)𝑛+1
=− 𝑥 cos 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝑛2
𝜋 𝜋
1 1 2
1 𝜋 1 𝜋 2
𝑏𝑛 = 𝑓 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 − 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 = 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 − 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥
𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋 𝜋 −𝜋
 Fourier Series: MTH-174 Prof. U. Sarkar

2 𝜋 2(−1)𝑛 +1
= 𝑥 sin 𝑛𝑥 𝑑𝑥 =
𝜋 0 𝑛
Therefore, the Fourier series is given by
∞
𝜋2 2 −1 𝑛+1 −1 𝑛+1
+2 cos 𝑛𝑥 + sin 𝑛𝑥
3 𝑛2 𝑛
𝑛=1

𝜋2 cos 𝑥 cos 2𝑥 cos 3𝑥 sin 𝑥 sin 2𝑥 sin 3𝑥

= +2 2 2
− 2
+ 2
−⋯ + − + −⋯
3 1 2 3 1 2 3

Problem Set:

1. Find the Fourier series representing the following functions:

(i) 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋 − 𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 2𝜋
−𝑥, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0
(ii) 𝑓 𝑥 =
𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
𝜋, −𝜋 < 𝑥 < 0
(iii) 𝑓 𝑥 =
−𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
2. Find the half range sine series that represents the following functions:
(i) 𝑓 𝑥 = −𝑥, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
(ii) 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
(iii) 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝑥2 , 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
3. Find the half range cosine series that represents the following functions:
𝑥
(i) 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋 ,0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
𝜋
(ii) 𝑓 𝑥 = −2,0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋
(iii) 𝑓 𝑥 = 𝜋, 0 < 𝑥 < 𝜋