Complex Analysis: Identity Theorem

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Identity Theorem in complex analysis, specifically focusing on identifying functions based on their values at certain points within a disk. The original poster presents two cases involving a function with a power series representation and questions the uniqueness of the identified functions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the concept of a "zero set" and its relation to convergence, with some questioning the terminology used by the original poster. There is an exploration of the implications of the Identity Theorem and its application to the given function scenarios.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants clarifying terms and concepts related to the Identity Theorem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the terminology, but there is no explicit consensus on the uniqueness aspect of the functions identified.

Contextual Notes

Participants are examining the definitions and implications of the Identity Theorem and its corollaries, with a focus on the conditions under which functions can be considered unique. There is a side question regarding the relationship between a corollary from the textbook and the Uniqueness Theorem.

nateHI
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Homework Statement


Let f be a function with a power series representation on a disk, say [itex]D(0,1)[/itex]. In each case, use the given information to identify the function. Is it unique?
(a) [itex]f(1/n)=4[/itex] for n=1,2,[itex]\dots[/itex]
(b) [itex]f(i/n)=-\frac{1}{n^2}[/itex] for n=1,2,[itex]\dots[/itex]

A side question:
Is corollary 1 from my textbook given below just the Uniqueness Theorem?

Homework Equations


Corollary 1
Let [itex]g_1[/itex] and [itex]g_2[/itex] be holomorphic on the open connected set [itex]O[/itex], such that [itex]g_1=g_2[/itex] on a set that has an accumulation point within [itex]O[/itex]. Then [itex]g_1=g_2[/itex] throughout [itex]O[/itex].

The Attempt at a Solution


(a)
Consider [itex]g(z)=f(z)-4[/itex]. [itex]g[/itex] has a zero set [itex]\{1/n\}[/itex] that converges to [itex]0[/itex]. Therefore, by, the identity theorem
$$
g(z)=0\implies f(z)=4
$$
Finally, we note that [itex]f(z)=4[/itex] satisfies the conditions given in the problem statement for part (a). Also, in solving the first part of this problem we've demonstrated the hypothesis for Corollary 1, thereby showing that [itex]f(z)[/itex] is unique.
(b)
Consider [itex]g(z)=f(z)-z^2[/itex]. [itex]g[/itex] has a zero set [itex]\{i/n\}[/itex] that converges to [itex]0[/itex]. Therefore, by the Identity Theorem,
$$
g(z)=0\implies f(z)=z^2
$$
Finally, we note that [itex]z^2[/itex] satisfies the conditions given in the problem statement for part (b). Also, in solving the first part of this problem we've demonstrated the hypothesis for Corollary 1, thereby showing that [itex]f(z)[/itex] is unique.
 
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I'm not sure what you mean with "zero set [...] that converges to 0" - a set does not converge, and what is a zero set?
You can probably skip some steps you make twice, but the proof is fine.
 
A zero sequence would be a more apt descriptor then. So, a zero sequence is a sequence [itex]\{z_k\}[/itex] such that [itex]f(z_k)=0[/itex] for all k and where [itex]\lim_{k\to\infty} z_k\to a[/itex]. In my case a=0.
 

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