What are the Singularities of f(z) = log(1+z^1/2)?

In summary, the problem involves finding the singularities of the function f(z) = log(1+z^{\frac{1}{2}}). After considering the branch points of z^{\frac{1}{2}} and logz, it is determined that the singularities only arise due to the branch cuts. This means that any point on a branch but is a non-isolated singularity. The only points that must be singularities are the branch points. There are 2 branch point singularities if the '+' branch of z^{\frac{1}{2}} is taken, namely 0 and infinity. If the '-' branch is taken, there are 3 branch point singularities, namely 0, 1, and
  • #1
stephenkeiths
54
0

Homework Statement


Find all the singularities of

[itex]f(z)=log(1+z^{\frac{1}{2}})[/itex]

Homework Equations


Well I need to expand this. Find if it has removable singularities, poles, essential singularities, or non-isolated singularities. The problem is the branches. I know [itex]z^{\frac{1}{2}}[/itex]
has branch points at 0 and ∞ and logz has branch points at 0 and ∞. So if we choose the '-' branch of [itex]z^{\frac{1}{2}}[/itex], then z=1 is also a branch point.

I'm just having trouble since I can't expand this function for all the different branches.
 
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  • #2
I figured this out, should someone ever stumble upon this and be curious.

The singularities arise only due to the branch cuts! So any point on a branch but is a non-isolated singularity. However, the branch cut is somewhat arbitrary, so long as the cut ends at branch points. So the only points that MUST be singularities are the branch points. And I fully classified the branch points above.

Conclusion: there are 2 branch point singularities (that is what my book calls them) if you take the '+' branch of z^1/2, namely 0 and infinity. There are 3 branch point singularities if you take the '-' branch, namely 0, 1, and infinity.
 

FAQ: What are the Singularities of f(z) = log(1+z^1/2)?

What is a singularity?

A singularity is a point in space where the laws of physics break down and there is infinite density and curvature. It is often associated with black holes, but can also occur in other areas of physics such as the Big Bang.

How are singularities formed?

Singularities are formed when matter becomes infinitely dense, usually as a result of the collapse of a massive star or the birth of the universe. In these extreme conditions, the laws of physics as we know them can no longer accurately describe what is happening.

Can we see singularities?

No, we cannot see singularities directly as they are hidden behind the event horizon of a black hole. However, we can observe the effects of singularities on their surroundings, such as the distortion of light and the extreme gravitational pull.

Are singularities dangerous?

Singularities can be dangerous in their immediate vicinity due to their immense gravitational pull. However, they do not pose a threat to us from a distance. In fact, the existence of singularities plays a crucial role in shaping our universe.

How do scientists study singularities?

Scientists study singularities through theoretical models and observations of their effects on surrounding matter. They also use advanced mathematical concepts such as general relativity to understand the behavior of singularities. However, there is still much we do not know about these mysterious phenomena.

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