Complex Analysis: Solving Logarithmic Equations and Limits

In summary, the conversation is discussing a problem involving finding the values of ln(i), ln(-i), and i^i. The solution is provided as ln(i)=i*pi/2, ln(-i)=-i*pi/2, and i^i=exp(-pi/2). The conversation also mentions a limit question involving the value of ln(zo+e)-ln(zo+i*e) when e-> 0. The limit is found to be 0 when zo=-1-i and zo=1+i, with the explanation that a cut line affects the limits differently and that sometimes the easy answer is easy because of understanding complex concepts.
  • #1
Dassinia
144
0
Hello,
I'm solving the problems given in previous exams, and there's this question:

Homework Statement



a/ Give the value of ln(i), ln(-i) and i^i
b/ If zo=-1-i , what is the value of

lim [ ln(zo+e)-ln(zo+i*e) ] when e-> 0
Same question with zo=1+i


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


a. ln(i)=ln|i|+i*arg(i)=i*pi/2
ln(-i)=-i*pi/2
i^i=exp(-pi/2)
b. I found that when zo=-1-i and zo=1+i the limit is 0, I don't know if I'm missing something, this question is so easy that it seems suspect

Thanks !
 
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  • #2
There is a cut line where the limits will differ. Since exp is a many to one function in the complex plane we have to make a restriction on it's domain when we invert. But that cut is typically made on the negative real ray so only there do you have discontinuity in the Ln function. But away from there it is a continuous function so limit=value.

Easy [itex]\ne [/itex] Simple, sometimes the easy answer is easy because you understand some very non-simple concepts. Sometimes a simple answer isn't easy too.
 

FAQ: Complex Analysis: Solving Logarithmic Equations and Limits

What is the definition of a logarithm in complex analysis?

A logarithm in complex analysis is a mathematical function that maps a complex number to another complex number. It is defined as the inverse of the exponential function, and is written as logb(z) or ln(z).

How is the logarithm function extended to the complex plane?

The logarithm function can be extended to the complex plane by using the principal branch, which is a specific choice of branch for the function that avoids discontinuities. The principal branch of the logarithm is defined as logb(z) = ln|z| + i*arg(z), where arg(z) is the principal argument of z.

What are the properties of the complex logarithm?

Some important properties of the complex logarithm include:

  • The logarithm of a product is equal to the sum of the logarithms of the factors: log(z1z2) = log(z1) + log(z2)
  • The logarithm of a quotient is equal to the difference of the logarithms of the numerator and denominator: log(z1/z2) = log(z1) - log(z2)
  • The logarithm of a power is equal to the exponent times the logarithm of the base: log(zn) = n*log(z)

How is the complex logarithm used in solving equations?

The complex logarithm can be used to solve equations involving exponential and logarithmic functions. It can also be used to find roots of complex numbers, as the logarithm function is the inverse of the exponential function.

Can the complex logarithm be used on negative or non-real numbers?

Yes, the complex logarithm can be used on negative or non-real numbers. However, the result will be a complex number with both a real and imaginary part.

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