Is the Set {z^2: z = x+iy, x>0, y>0} Open or Closed?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the nature of the set {z^2: z = x+iy, x>0, y>0}, specifically whether it is open or closed. Participants explore the implications of squaring complex numbers with positive real and imaginary parts, considering both theoretical and conceptual aspects.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the notation and the effect of squaring the complex number z.
  • It is noted that the set consists of squares of complex numbers with positive real and imaginary parts.
  • One participant suggests that the set should be open due to the strict inequalities x>0 and y>0.
  • Another participant clarifies that the boundary of the set is the real line and emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between "strict upper half plane" and "non-strict upper half plane."
  • There is a mention of the holomorphic mapping z \mapsto z^2, with a participant asserting that its domain is open and connected.
  • One participant reflects on their grading experience, indicating that they answered "open" but did not receive credit, suggesting a lack of explanation for their reasoning.
  • Another participant introduces the open mapping theorem, noting that its application requires certain conditions to be met.
  • A suggestion is made to consider the function z \mapsto \sqrt{z} for better understanding, as the preimage of an open set under a continuous function is open.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the set is open or closed, with no consensus reached. Some support the idea that it is open based on the properties of the mapping, while others emphasize the need for careful application of theorems.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved issues regarding the application of the open mapping theorem and the implications of squaring complex numbers. Participants highlight the importance of documenting reasoning when applying mathematical theorems.

sweetvirgogirl
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{z^2: z = x+iy, x>0, y>0}

i am a lil confused about the notation to represent the set ...

i'm used to seeing {z: z = x+iy, x>0, y>0}
but what effect does squaring z have?

i thought the set was open simply because x>0 and y>0 ... but apprently i was wrong ... (or maybe not?) ... i don't know ... i need to know what squaring that z means
 
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It's the set of squares of complex numbers with positive real and imaginary parts. Another way to write it would be:

[tex]\{z\ :\ \exists x>0,\, y>0\ s.t.\ z = (x+iy)^2\}[/tex]
 
in that case ... wouldn't it be an open set?
and it will be above real axis? (meaning the boundary is upper plane or lower plane? getting confused with terminology a little)
 
sweetvirgogirl said:
in that case ... wouldn't it be an open set?
and it will be above real axis? (meaning the boundary is upper plane or lower plane? getting confused with terminology a little)

well you've got strict inequalities everywhere...
 
The boundary is just the real line. Note it's usually good to distinguish "strict upper half plane" and "non-strict upper half plane" so you don't confuse yourself or others.
 
As for the openness/closedness, [tex]z \mapsto z^2[/tex] is a holomorphic mapping, and its domain is open and connected, so...
 
Tantoblin said:
As for the openness/closedness, [tex]z \mapsto z^2[/tex] is a holomorphic mapping, and its domain is open and connected, so...
thats what i thought ... i wrote down "open" as my answer and the prof circles it and I don't think I got any points for it ... yes, i didnt write connected, but I should at least get half the points or something. oh well maybe he didnt gimme any credit, because I didnt explain why I think it's open set
 
Yes, well the crucial point here is that you are applying the open mapping theorem, which works only when a number of conditions are satisfied. The open mapping theorem is very nontrivial and even counterintuitive, so you should properly document its application.
 
I think you'll have better luck looking at the function [tex]z \mapsto \sqrt{z}[/tex]. The preimage of an open set under a continuous function is open.
 
Last edited:

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