Complex Analysis - The Maximum Modulus Principle

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves finding the maximum of the function \( f(z) = 3 - |z|^2 \) on the disc of radius 1 in the complex plane, specifically questioning the application of the maximum modulus principle.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the implications of the maximum modulus principle and whether it applies to the given function, with some questioning the analyticity of \( f(z) \). There is an exploration of the assumption that the maximum occurs at \( z=0 \) versus on the boundary of the disc.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, with some providing insights about the function's analyticity and its implications for finding the maximum. There is recognition that the initial assumption about the maximum being at \( z=0 \) may need further consideration.

Contextual Notes

There is a discussion about the lack of instruction on how to handle non-analytic functions in this context, which may affect the approach to the problem.

smcro5
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Homework Statement



Find the maximum of \left|f\right| on the disc of radius 1 in the Complex Plane, for f(z)=3-\left|z\right|^{2}

Homework Equations



The maximum modulus principle?

The Attempt at a Solution



Since |z| is a real number, then surely the maximum must be 3 when z=0? However, I was reading that the maximum must occur on the boundary, which is |z|=1, for the disc which is described by |z|≤1. What am I doing wrong? Thanks in advance for any help!
 
Last edited:
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The Maximum Modulus Theorem applies to analytic functions. Is yours analytic?
 
Ah thanks for that, jackmell, much appreciated! It looks like 3-|z|^2 is not analytic, so the maximum modulus principle must therefore not apply. In situations like this though, we weren't taught how to deal with such things. So would my initial assumption be correct that the maximum of |f| is indeed 3 at z=0 ?
 
smcro5, u might be able to say that the function is analytic at x=y=0, so if u bound a domain there it should occur there, so yeah most likely the maximum should be 3. You can plot the function, It looks like a mexican hat ;)
 
Cheers Matty_t69, now it all makes sense! The plot of the function just makes the question a wee tad more exciting eh? ;)
 

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