Integrating a Complex Function Over a Contour

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on integrating the complex function defined by ##f(z) = z^2## along a contour parameterized by ##z(t) = t + it^2##. It is established that since ##f(z)## is analytic everywhere, the integral is independent of the contour chosen. The user initially attempted to parameterize a straight-line contour between the points ##z(1) = (1,1)## and ##z(3) = (3,9)##, but encountered difficulties in determining the correct interval for ##\tau##. The correct parameterization for the contour is ultimately identified as ##z_1(t) = \tau + i(2 \tau - 3)##.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex functions and analyticity
  • Familiarity with contour integration in complex analysis
  • Knowledge of parameterization techniques for curves
  • Basic algebra for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of analytic functions in complex analysis
  • Learn about contour integration techniques and their applications
  • Explore parameterization methods for different types of curves
  • Review the concept of independence of path in complex integrals
USEFUL FOR

Students and professionals in mathematics, particularly those studying complex analysis, as well as anyone interested in mastering contour integration techniques.

Bashyboy
Messages
1,419
Reaction score
5

Homework Statement


##z(t) = t + it^2## and ##f(z) = z^2 = (x^2 - y^2) + 2iyx##

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


Because ##f(z)## is analytic everywhere in the plane, the integral of ##f(z)## between the points ##z(1) = (1,1)## and ##z(3) = (3,9)## is independent of the contour (the path taken). So, I can choose a simpler contour which passes through these two points, such as a line.

Using the two points to find the slope, and parameterizing it, we get the straight-line contour

##z_1(\tau) = \tau + i(4 \tau + 3)##.

Here is where I am having difficulty. How exactly do I find the interval between the two points? This is how I did it, but am I unsure if it is correct:

##z(\tau) = (1,1) \implies##

##(\tau, 4 \tau + 3) = (1,1)##

which gives us the two equations

##\tau = 1## and ##4 \tau + 3 = 1##.

However, I get a different ##\tau## value from each equation. What can account for this?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
I found the mistake. The straight-line contour should actually be ##z_1(t) = \tau + i(2 \tau \underbrace{-} 3)##
 

Similar threads

Replies
2
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K