Sets closed under complex exponentiation

In summary, the rational and algebraic elements of ℂ are closed under addition, multiplication, and rational exponentiation, but not under complex exponentiation. There is a theory that studies number fields closed under complex exponentiation, such as Liouville numbers, which are the smallest algebraically closed field that is closed under both exponentiation and logarithm.
  • #1
alexfloo
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The rational (and also algebraic) elements of ℂ are closed under addition, multiplication, and rational exponentiation (the algebraic numbers, that is), but not under complex exponentiation. For instance, [itex](-1)^i=e^{-\pi}[/itex], with is not rational, and in fact it is even transcendental.

Is there any algebraic theory that studies number fields that are closed under complex exponentiation, or otherwise the conditions under which an exponent of rational/algebraic numbers is itself algebraic?
 
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  • #2
Here is a possible start for your investigations: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Closed-form_expression

It appears that the Liouville numbers are the smallest algebraically closed field that is closed under both exponentiation and logarithm. (If you wiki "Liouville numbers" then you end up with a different concept however).
 

1. What is the definition of "Sets closed under complex exponentiation"?

"Sets closed under complex exponentiation" refers to a set that contains all the complex numbers that can be obtained by raising any element of the set to any complex power.

2. How is complex exponentiation different from real exponentiation?

Complex exponentiation involves raising a complex number to a complex power, whereas real exponentiation involves raising a real number to a real power. Complex exponentiation also allows for the possibility of multiple solutions, while real exponentiation only has one unique solution.

3. Can all sets be closed under complex exponentiation?

No, not all sets can be closed under complex exponentiation. For a set to be closed under complex exponentiation, it must contain all complex numbers that can be obtained by raising any element of the set to any complex power. This means that the set must be infinite and contain all possible combinations of complex numbers and powers.

4. What are some examples of sets that are closed under complex exponentiation?

Some examples of sets that are closed under complex exponentiation include the set of all complex numbers, the set of all natural numbers, and the set of all rational numbers. These sets are infinite and contain all possible combinations of complex numbers and powers.

5. Why is the concept of sets closed under complex exponentiation important in mathematics?

The concept of sets closed under complex exponentiation is important in mathematics because it allows for the manipulation and exploration of complex numbers in a systematic and organized way. It also has applications in various fields such as physics, engineering, and computer science.

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