Can a Non-Surjective Smooth Harmonic Function on $\Bbb R^2$ Be Non-Constant?

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SUMMARY

Every smooth harmonic function from $\Bbb R^2$ to $\Bbb R$ that is not surjective must be constant. This conclusion is based on the properties of harmonic functions and the implications of non-surjectivity in the context of smooth mappings. Alan's contribution included a well-thought-out proof, although it was incomplete. The discussion emphasizes the fundamental relationship between harmonic functions and their surjectivity.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of harmonic functions in mathematics
  • Familiarity with smooth mappings and their properties
  • Knowledge of surjectivity in the context of function theory
  • Basic concepts of topology related to $\Bbb R^2$
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of harmonic functions in detail
  • Explore the implications of surjectivity in mathematical functions
  • Investigate the relationship between smoothness and constancy in mappings
  • Review advanced topics in topology related to $\Bbb R^2$
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Mathematicians, students studying real analysis, and anyone interested in the properties of harmonic functions and their applications in topology.

Euge
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Here is this week's POTW:

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Prove that every smooth harmonic function from $\Bbb R^2$ to $\Bbb R$ that is not surjective must be constant.

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Alan receives honorable mention for providing a well thought-out, but incomplete, proof of the result. You can read my solution below.

Let $h : \Bbb R^2 \to \Bbb R$ be a smooth harmonic function that is not surjective. Let $f$ be an entire function whose real part is $h$. Since the image of $h$ misses at least one point $a\in \Bbb R$, the image of $f$ misses at least the line $\operatorname{Re}(z) = a$. By the Little Picard theorem, $f$ must be constant. Therefore, $h$ is constant.
 

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