Time and the eyes to see [waveform analysis]

In engineering we frequently make use of an oscilloscope to see the various forms of waves with which we work. If it is a sound wave, we would use a microphone to capture the wave. The microphone is known as a transducer, converting the acoustic energy into electrical energy. A photo-sensor acts as a transducer for a light wave and an antenna is able to retrieve a radio wave. To interpret the waves, of whichever kind, the waveform can be recorded and this is not a difficult task if the wave is displayable on the oscilloscope. Joseph Fourier (1768-1830) produced a theory that allowed us to analyze the waves that we record. His method can be likened to many of the tools that have been discussed. We have seen physical transformations to provide insights and this is a transformation of a mathematical kind.