Calculate Limit: $\frac{\sqrt{z}-i+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}}$

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the limit of the expression \(\frac{\sqrt{z}-i+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}}\) as \(z\) approaches \(-1\). The problem involves complex analysis and the behavior of square root functions at specific points.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the direct substitution of \(z = -1\) leading to an indeterminate form \(\frac{0}{0}\). There are considerations about simplifying the expression and the potential use of complex conjugates. One participant suggests multiplying by \(\frac{\sqrt{z+i}}{\sqrt{z+i}}\) as a possible first step. Another participant questions the interpretation of the numerator's expression.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active with participants exploring different approaches to handle the limit. Some guidance has been offered regarding manipulation of the expression, but there is no consensus on a definitive method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraint that the branch of the square root is defined such that \(\sqrt{-1} = i\). There is an emphasis on not seeking a complete solution but rather assistance in starting the problem.

jjr
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Homework Statement


Calculate the following limit if it exists
## lim_{z\to -1}\frac{\sqrt{z}-i+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}} ##
the branch of root is chosen to that ##\sqrt{-1}=i##

Homework Equations


3. The Attempt at a Solution
[/B]
By inserting ##z=-1## directly, I get a ##\frac{0}{0}## expression.

I don't see how the expression can be simplified before inserting the limit, that seems out of the question.
I have a few theorems involving points at infinity, but none of them apply here.
I considered making the denominator real by multiplying by its complex conjugate, but the numerator will still be 0 when multiplied by any number.

The answer is supposed to be ##1/(i\sqrt{2})##.

Not looking for a solution or quick fix, would be very happy if someone could help me the first step of the way.J
 
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jjr said:

Homework Statement


Calculate the following limit if it exists
## lim_{z\to -1}\frac{\sqrt{z}-i+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}} ##
the branch of root is chosen to that ##\sqrt{-1}=i##

Homework Equations


3. The Attempt at a Solution
[/B]
By inserting ##z=-1## directly, I get a ##\frac{0}{0}## expression.

I don't see how the expression can be simplified before inserting the limit, that seems out of the question.
I have a few theorems involving points at infinity, but none of them apply here.
I considered making the denominator real by multiplying by its complex conjugate, but the numerator will still be 0 when multiplied by any number.

The answer is supposed to be ##1/(i\sqrt{2})##.

Not looking for a solution or quick fix, would be very happy if someone could help me the first step of the way.J

Hint: Try multiplying the expression by: ##\frac { \sqrt { z + i } }{ \sqrt { z + i } } ##

Moderator note: I revised the expression above to convey what FaroukYasser meant, but did not write.
 
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Thank you, got it now!

## \lim_{i\to -1} \frac{\sqrt{z}-1+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}} ##

##\to \lim_{i\to -1} \frac{\sqrt{z}-1+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{(z+1)(z-1)}} ##

##\to \lim_{i\to -1} \frac{1}{\sqrt{z-1}} = \frac{1}{i\sqrt{2}} ##
 
jjr said:

Homework Statement


Calculate the following limit if it exists
## lim_{z\to -1}\frac{\sqrt{z}-i+\sqrt{z+1}}{\sqrt{z^2-1}} ##
the branch of root is chosen to that ##\sqrt{-1}=i##

Homework Equations


3. The Attempt at a Solution
[/B]
By inserting ##z=-1## directly, I get a ##\frac{0}{0}## expression.

I don't see how the expression can be simplified before inserting the limit, that seems out of the question.
I have a few theorems involving points at infinity, but none of them apply here.
I considered making the denominator real by multiplying by its complex conjugate, but the numerator will still be 0 when multiplied by any number.

The answer is supposed to be ##1/(i\sqrt{2})##.

Not looking for a solution or quick fix, would be very happy if someone could help me the first step of the way.J

Is your numerator equal to ##\sqrt{z} \: - i \: + \sqrt{z+1}##, or is it ##\sqrt{z-i} + \sqrt{z+1}## (or maybe even ##\sqrt{z-i} + \sqrt{z+i}## )? You wrote the first.
 
The first
 

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