Explicit or analytic formula for a homeomorphism

In summary, an explicit formula for a homeomorphism between a circle and a square could be to use the map f(x,y) = (x,y)/max{|x|, |y|}, which takes any convex set containing (0,0) into the unit square. This map is continuous but not differentiable.
  • #1
sparkster
153
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What would an explicit or analytic formula for a homeomorphism between a circle and a square be?

Or a disc and [0,1] x [0,1]?
 
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  • #2
I don't know why you would want this; the whole point of topology is to get beyond the analytic strait-jacket, but If you must why not do it in the first quadrant, mapping the quarter circle [tex]x^2 + y^2 = 1[/tex] to the quarter square made by the line segments [tex]x = 1, 0 \leq y \leq 1[/tex] and [tex]y = 1, 0 \leq x \leq 1[/tex]? Trig functions should do the job. Think about it.
 
  • #3
ex-xian said:
What would an explicit or analytic formula for a homeomorphism between a circle and a square be?

Or a disc and [0,1] x [0,1]?
I would try converting the euclidean ball to the infinity norm ball.

That is, take a point in the circle, i.e., a vector (x,y) such that [tex]x^2+y^2 = 1[/tex]. Now take the map:

[tex]f(x,y)\; := \; \frac{(x,y)}{\mathrm{max}\{\vert x\vert,\,\vert y\vert\}}[/tex]

where f(0,0) is undefined.

This map takes any convex set containing (0,0) into the unit square, hence it takes the unit circle in the unit square. It is easy to show that f is continuous, but not differentiable.
 
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1. What is a homeomorphism?

A homeomorphism is a type of function in mathematics that describes a continuous and bijective mapping between two topological spaces. In simpler terms, it is a way to describe a transformation that preserves the structure and relationship of points in a space.

2. What is the difference between explicit and analytic formulas for a homeomorphism?

An explicit formula for a homeomorphism is a direct and specific equation that can be used to map points from one space to another. An analytic formula, on the other hand, involves using a series of steps or calculations to determine the mapping between points. Both types of formulas can be used to describe a homeomorphism, but they differ in their approach and level of complexity.

3. How is a homeomorphism useful in mathematics?

Homeomorphisms are useful in many areas of mathematics, particularly in topology and geometry. They allow for the comparison and analysis of different spaces by preserving their underlying structure. Homeomorphisms also help in identifying similarities and differences between spaces, making it easier to solve problems and prove theorems.

4. Can a homeomorphism exist between spaces of different dimensions?

Yes, a homeomorphism can exist between spaces of different dimensions. As long as the spaces have the same underlying structure and the function preserves this structure, a homeomorphism can be defined between them. However, the specific mapping may be more complex and difficult to visualize in spaces of different dimensions.

5. How is a homeomorphism different from an isomorphism?

While both homeomorphisms and isomorphisms involve mappings between spaces, they differ in the properties they preserve. A homeomorphism preserves the topological properties of a space, while an isomorphism preserves algebraic properties. In other words, a homeomorphism focuses on the shape and structure of a space, while an isomorphism focuses on the mathematical operations and relationships within a space.

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