Solving Harmonic Function: Find v(x,y) for u + iv Analytic on C

In summary, a harmonic function is a function that satisfies Laplace's equation and has a constant rate of change in all directions. A function is analytic on the complex plane if it is differentiable at every point and can be expressed as a power series. The process for finding v(x,y) for u + iv Analytic on C involves using the Cauchy-Riemann equations. A function cannot be analytic on the complex plane but not harmonic, and solving harmonic functions has various real-world applications in fields such as physics, engineering, computer graphics, and the study of partial differential equations.
  • #1
squenshl
479
4

Homework Statement


I have shown that u(x,y) = e-xsin(y) is harmonic. That is uxx+ uyy = 0. How do I find a harmonic function v(x,y) such that u + iv is analytic on C.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I tried to find v(x,y) in the same fashion as you find a scalar potential, given a gradient but that was no go.
Would I find the Cauchy-Riemann equations & go from there?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Never mind. Got it.
It was v(x,y) = e-xcos(y) + K
 

What is a harmonic function?

A harmonic function is a function that satisfies Laplace's equation, which states that the sum of the second-order partial derivatives of a function with respect to its independent variables is equal to 0. In simpler terms, a harmonic function is a function that has a constant rate of change in all directions.

What does it mean for a function to be analytic on the complex plane?

A function is analytic on the complex plane if it is differentiable at every point in the complex plane. This means that the function has a well-defined derivative at every point, and therefore can be approximated by a polynomial at each point. One of the key properties of analytic functions is that they can be expressed as power series.

What is the process for finding v(x,y) for u + iv Analytic on C?

The process for finding v(x,y) for u + iv Analytic on C involves using the Cauchy-Riemann equations, which state that the partial derivatives of u and v with respect to x and y must satisfy certain conditions. By solving these equations, you can determine the function v(x,y) that satisfies the conditions and completes the analytic function.

Can a function be analytic on the complex plane but not harmonic?

No, a function cannot be analytic on the complex plane but not harmonic. This is because a function that is analytic on the complex plane must satisfy Laplace's equation, which is a necessary condition for a function to be harmonic. Therefore, all analytic functions on the complex plane are also harmonic functions.

What are some real-world applications of solving harmonic functions?

Solving harmonic functions has many real-world applications, particularly in physics and engineering. For example, it is used to model the flow of fluids and the distribution of electrical potential in circuits. It is also used in computer graphics to create smooth and realistic images. Additionally, harmonic functions are important in the study of partial differential equations, which are used to model a wide range of physical phenomena.

Similar threads

  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
27
Views
706
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
581
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
8
Views
6K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
596
  • Calculus and Beyond Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
1K
Back
Top