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Periodic versus non-periodic function

As part of the first homework in ECE301 this semester, we were asked to give an example of a periodic function as well as an example of a non-periodic function. Here are my answers. A precise definition of periodic function can be found on my colleague Brian Thomas' page.

Periodic Functions

A periodic function is a function which repeats over a period of time. A good example of periodic functions are:

  • $ \,y = sin(t) $

Oddsinx ECE301Fall2008mboutin.gif As you can see, this function repeats itself with a period of $ 2\pi $

  • $ \,y = cos(t) $

As you can see, this function repeats itself with a period of $ 2\pi $ Evencosx ECE301Fall2008mboutin.gif

Non-Periodic Functions

Non periodic functions don't repeat. A good example of non-periodic functions are:

  • $ \,y = x^2 $

Parabola ECE301Fall2008mboutin.gif

  • $ \,y = e^x $

Graph14 ECE301Fall2008mboutin.png


Back to ECE301 Fall 2008, Prof. Boutin

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Ph.D. 2007, working on developing cool imaging technologies for digital cameras, camera phones, and video surveillance cameras.

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