The Fourier Transform

The Fourier Transform is a mathematical tool that breaks down complex signals, like a sound or image, into their basic building blocks—simple waves called sine and cosine functions. Think of it as identifying all the individual notes in a piece of music. This process helps us analyze, filter, or modify signals more easily, revealing the different frequencies or patterns that make up the original. It’s widely used in various fields, from audio processing to image analysis, providing a powerful way to understand and manipulate complex data by examining its fundamental components.