Fourier Methods Across the Curriculum

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Calvin College's Physics Department is utilizing two instruments to add modern Fourier-analysis capability to the Fourier-synthesis methods already used in a variety of courses. The equipment corrects a curricular deficiency identified in the treatment of waves in general physics, health physics, mechanics, electronics, and laboratory courses. The Fourier analyzers enable students to see how audio, or general electronic, signals can be decomposed into a sum of sinusoidal waves, and how this "frequency domain" viewpoint allows various physical phenomena to be understood. A computer-resident fast- Fourier-transform instrument added to a laboratory microcomputer serves to capture and Fourier-transform signals in the 0 - 500 kHz range. This instrument is particularly useful in acoustics demonstrations and electronic measurement. A stand-alone radio-frequency spectrum analyzer extends Fourier-analysis capability to 2000 Mhz, and makes possible a variety of measurements, experiments, and research directions in electronics and modern optics.NSF grant funds are being matched with funds from non-federal sources.