Is a Harmonic Function Constant if its Square is Also Harmonic?

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    2015
In summary, a harmonic function is not always constant and can take on different values as long as it satisfies the Laplace equation. A harmonic function is one that satisfies the Laplace equation, and if its square is also harmonic, then the function must be constant. A non-constant harmonic function cannot have a harmonic square, as only a constant harmonic function can have a harmonic square. Studying the properties of harmonic functions is important because they have many applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and mathematics.
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Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Let $X$ be a domain in $\mathbb C$, and let $f : X \to \Bbb R$ be a harmonic function such that $f^2$ is harmonic. Prove $f$ is constant.

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This week's problem was correctly solved by Opalg. Here is his solution.
Writing $f_x,\;f_y$ for the partial derivatives, the condition for harmonicity is $f_{xx} + f_{yy} = 0.$

For the function $f^2$, $(f^2)_x = 2ff_x$ and $(f^2)_{xx} = 2(f_x)^2 + 2ff_{xx}.$ Similarly $(f^2)_{yy} = 2(f_y)^2 + 2ff_{yy}.$ Therefore $$(f^2)_{xx} + (f^2)_{yy} = 2\bigl((f_x)^2 + (f_y)^2\bigr) + 2f\bigl(f_{xx} + f_{yy}\bigr) = 2\bigl((f_x)^2 + (f_y)^2\bigr).$$ If $f^2$ is harmonic then this must be zero. But $(f_x)^2 + (f_y)^2 = 0$ implies $f_x = f_y = 0$. Therefore $f$ is constant. (Strictly speaking, if the partial derivatives vanish then $f$ is locally constant. But since a domain has to be connected it follows that $f$ must be globally constant.)
 

FAQ: Is a Harmonic Function Constant if its Square is Also Harmonic?

Is a harmonic function always constant?

No, a harmonic function is not always constant. It can take on different values at different points, as long as it satisfies the Laplace equation.

What does it mean for a function to be harmonic?

A harmonic function is one that satisfies the Laplace equation, which means that the sum of its second-order partial derivatives is equal to 0.

What is the relationship between a harmonic function and its square?

If the square of a harmonic function is also harmonic, then the harmonic function must be constant.

Can a non-constant harmonic function have a harmonic square?

No, a non-constant harmonic function cannot have a harmonic square. Only a constant harmonic function can have a harmonic square.

Why is it important to study the properties of harmonic functions?

Harmonic functions have many important applications in fields such as physics, engineering, and mathematics. Studying their properties allows us to better understand and solve problems in these fields.

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