Basic question on Determing Singular Points

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around identifying singular points of complex functions, specifically focusing on rational functions. Participants explore the concept of singularities in the context of complex analysis.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants attempt to identify singular points by determining where the denominator of given functions equals zero. They also discuss the implications of the numerator and the formal definition of isolated singularities.

Discussion Status

Some participants express agreement on the identification of singular points and confirm their understanding of the concept. There is a reference to a formal definition, indicating a deeper exploration of the topic.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the pace of the class and the potential for confusion regarding the material, suggesting a need for clarification on the definitions and implications of singular points.

RJLiberator
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Determine the singular points of each function:

f(z) = (z^3+i)/(z^2-3z+2)

So it is my understanding that a singular point is one that makes the denominator 0 in this case.
We see that (z-2)(z-1) is the denominator and we thus conclude that z =2, z=1 are singular points.

f(z) = (2z+1)/(z(z^2+1))

So, z=0, +/- i are singular points.

Am I understanding this correctly?
 
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That is how I understand it. In general if you can find a value of z for which f(z) is undefined that is a singularity. You should also check what happens in the numerator to be sure you aren't missing anything.
 
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The formal definition for isolated singularities (or singular points), as stated in Fischer's "Complex Variables" is:
"An analytic function f has an isolated singularity at a point z_0 if f is analytic in the punctured disc 0<|z-z_0|<r, for some r>0.
That is, the function is well-defined in the neighborhood of the point, but not at the point itself.
 
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Given that f(z) is a rational function, a polynomial divided by a polynomial, then all singular points are where the denominator is 0.
 
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Excellent. Thank you for this confirmation.

This class is moving fasttttt.

=)
 

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