Can Complex Derivatives Clarify Div and Curl Properties?

In summary, the conversation discussed the relationship between curl and divergence in the case of R2, with div f(x,y) = 2Re( d/dz f(z,z_)) and curl f(x,y) = 2Im( d/dz f(z,z_)). The speaker also questioned whether understanding these concepts could be improved by examining d/dz f(z,z_), but the other person suggested considering physical applications and integral theorems for a better understanding.
  • #1
Mappe
30
0
In trying to get an intuition for curl and divergence, I've understood that in the case of R2, div f(x,y) = 2Re( d/dz f(z,z_)) and curl f(x,y) = 2Im( d/dz f(z,z_)), where f(z,z_) is just f(x,y) expressed in z and z conjugate (z_). Is there any way of proving the fundamental properties of div and curl and/or understanding them better by looking at d/dz f(z,z_)?
 
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  • #2
I think your complex example will be too limited for a full understanding and proper intuition. Both div and curl have higher dimensional generalizations. To get the best intuitive understanding I would suggest you a.) consider physical applications such as fluid flow and electromagnetic fields, and b.) look at the corresponding integral theorems.
 

FAQ: Can Complex Derivatives Clarify Div and Curl Properties?

What is a complex derivative?

A complex derivative is a mathematical concept used to describe the rate of change of a complex-valued function with respect to its input variable. It is similar to the concept of a derivative in calculus, but instead of dealing with real numbers, it involves complex numbers.

How is the complex derivative calculated?

The complex derivative is calculated using the same principles as the derivative in calculus, but with the addition of using the definition of a complex number. It involves taking the limit of the difference quotient as the change in the input variable approaches zero.

What is div/curl?

Div and curl, short for divergence and curl, are two mathematical operations used in vector calculus to describe the behavior of vector fields. Div describes the outward flow of a vector field, while curl describes the rotation of a vector field.

How are div and curl related to complex derivatives?

Div and curl can be thought of as the real and imaginary parts of the complex derivative. They provide a way to break down the complex derivative into its different components and understand the behavior of the complex-valued function in different directions.

What are some real-world applications of complex derivatives and div/curl?

Complex derivatives and div/curl have various applications in physics and engineering, such as in fluid dynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics. They are also used in image processing and computer graphics to manipulate and analyze complex data sets.

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