A delta-function method for the n-th approximation of relaxation or retardation time spectrum from dynamic data

A function series g(x; n, m) is presented that converges in the limiting case n and m = constant to the delta-function located at x = = 1. For every finite n, there exists 2n+1(–nmn) approximations of the delta-function _(n)(x–x _n,m ). x _n,m is the argument where the function reaches its maximum. A formula for the calculation is given.The delta-function approximation is the starting point for the approximative determination of the logarithmic density function of the relaxation or retardation time spectrum. The n-th approximation of density functions based on components of the complex modulus (G*) or the complex compliance (J*) is given. It represents an easy differential operator of order n.This approach generalizes the results obtained by Schwarzl and Staverman, and Tschoegl. The symmetry properties of the approximations are explained by the symmetry properties of the function g(x; n, m). Therefore, the separate equations for each approximation given by Tschoegl can be subsumed in a single equation for G and G, and in another for J and J.