The Möbius inversion formula for Fourier series applied to Bernoulli and Euler polynomials

Abstract

Hurwitz found the Fourier expansion of the Bernoulli polynomials over a century ago. In general, Fourier analysis can be fruitfully employed to obtain properties of the Bernoulli polynomials and related functions in a simple manner. In addition, applying the technique of Möbius inversion from analytic number theory to Fourier expansions, we derive identities involving Bernoulli polynomials, Bernoulli numbers, and the Möbius function; this includes formulas for the Bernoulli polynomials at rational arguments. Finally, we show some asymptotic properties concerning the Bernoulli and Euler polynomials.