Is ##\delta\left(a+bi\right)=\delta\left(a-bi\right)##?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the properties of the Dirac delta function when applied to complex arguments, specifically whether ##\delta(a+bi)## is equal to ##\delta(a-bi)##. Participants explore theoretical implications, mathematical formulations, and potential contradictions arising from different interpretations.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formulation of the delta function that suggests ##\delta(a+bi)## should equal ##\delta(a-bi)## based on the integrals involved, noting that the first integral does not depend on the sign of ##b##.
  • Another participant challenges the validity of the integrals, suggesting they appear divergent and may require correction.
  • A different participant questions the justification of a leap in reasoning regarding the interchange of integrals, citing concerns about absolute convergence in the context of distributions.
  • One participant reiterates the initial argument about the delta function's properties but emphasizes the confusion between complex and real arguments, referencing external sources to clarify the distinction.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the validity of the mathematical reasoning presented. There is no consensus on whether ##\delta(a+bi)## equals ##\delta(a-bi)##, and the discussion remains unresolved with competing interpretations and concerns about the underlying mathematics.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight potential limitations in the mathematical steps taken, including issues of convergence and the treatment of complex arguments in the context of the delta function.

Anixx
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We can write Delta function as

$$\delta(z) = \frac{1}{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^\infty e^{itz}\, dt=\delta\left(a+bi\right)=\frac1{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty}e^{-bx}\cos ax\, dx+\frac{i}{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty}e^{-bx}\sin ax\, dx.$$

The second integral is always zero (via Abel regularization, Laplace transform), the first integral does not depend on the sign of ##b##. So, ##\delta\left(a+bi\right)## should be equal to ##\delta\left(a-bi\right)##.

But this contradicts https://math.stackexchange.com/a/4045521/2513
$$\int_{-\infty}^\infty \delta(t+bi)f(t)dt=f(-bi)$$

which depends on the sign of ##b##.
 
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Fix the integrals! Off hand they look like divergent.
 
I am guessing that the following leap $$\int_{-\infty}^\infty e^{-bx}(\cos(ax)+i\sin(ax))\,dt=\int_{-\infty}^\infty e^{-bx}\cos(ax)\,dz+i\int_{-\infty}^\infty e^{-bx}\sin(ax)\,dt$$ is not justified due to failure of absolute convergence (in some generalized sense that applies to distributions).
 
Anixx said:
We can write Delta function as

$$\delta(z) = \frac{1}{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^\infty e^{itz}\, dt=\delta\left(a+bi\right)=\frac1{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty}e^{-bx}\cos ax\, dx+\frac{i}{2\pi}\int_{-\infty}^{+\infty}e^{-bx}\sin ax\, dx.$$

The second integral is always zero (via Abel regularization, Laplace transform), the first integral does not depend on the sign of ##b##. So, ##\delta\left(a+bi\right)## should be equal to ##\delta\left(a-bi\right)##.

But this contradicts https://math.stackexchange.com/a/4045521/2513
$$\int_{-\infty}^\infty \delta(t+bi)f(t)dt=f(-bi)$$

which depends on the sign of ##b##.
You are confusing complex and real arguments here. See:

https://mathoverflow.net/questions/118101/dirac-delta-function-with-a-complex-argument
 
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