What is the derivative of a complex function?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the derivative of the complex function (z - i)/(z + i) at the point z = i. Participants explore different methods of differentiation in the context of complex analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in applying the limit definition of the derivative and rationalizing the denominator.
  • Another participant presents a formula for the derivative of a quotient of functions and attempts to differentiate the given complex function, arriving at a derivative expression.
  • A participant acknowledges their earlier confusion and recognizes that differentiation rules for real and complex calculus are similar.
  • There is a question raised about the form of the denominator in the derivative, specifically why it is (z - i)² instead of (z + i)².
  • A later reply suggests that there was a mix-up in the functions used for differentiation and provides an alternative expression for the derivative, substituting z = i to find a specific value.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct form of the derivative, as there are conflicting expressions presented. Some participants agree on the differentiation rules, but confusion remains regarding the specific calculations.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the application of differentiation rules and the specific forms of the functions involved, which may lead to different interpretations of the derivative.

Pyrokenesis
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I am having trouble with the following question, any help would be blinding.

Find the value of ther derivative of:

(z - i)/(z + i) at i.

I tried to use the fact that f'(z0) = lim z->z0 [f(z) - f(z0)]/z - z0. I also tried using the fact that z = x + iy and rationalising the denominator, but had no joy either way.

Probably just being stupid!

Dexter
 
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Well:
[tex] F'[\frac{f(x)}{g(x)}] = \frac{f'(x)g(x) - f(x)g'(x)}{g(x)^{2}}[/tex]
so then...
[tex] \frac{\partial}{\partial z} \left(\frac{(z - i)}{(z + i)} \right) = \frac{(z + i) - (z - i)}{(z-i)^{2}} [/tex]
and if you order it...

[tex] \frac{2}{(z-i)^{2}}i[/tex]
 
Last edited:
Cheers

Thanks.

I was being stupid, that formula and fact that differentiation rules for real calculus and complex calculus is the same, was on the previous page to that question.
 
no one is stupid here.
 
MiGui... I am confused as to why it is (z-i)^2 and not (z+2)^2... because you set your g(x)=z+i... g(x)^2=(z+i)^2... why the negative?
 
Thanks TheElectricChild.

Ebolamonk3y, I think MiGUi, just got the functions mixed up, an easy mistake to make. You are right, g(x)=z+i... g(x)^2=(z+i)^2, therefore, the answer is:

2i/(z + i)^2, which after substituting i for z, yields:

-i/2.
 

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