What is the Meaning of Re(function)?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the meaning of the symbol Re(function) in mathematical contexts, particularly in relation to complex numbers. Participants explore its usage and implications, seeking clarity on its definition and application.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, Nkk, initially speculates that Re might refer to the Riemann zeta function but expresses uncertainty and seeks clarification.
  • Another participant suggests that Re(z) denotes the real part of a complex number, indicating its relevance in contexts involving complex numbers.
  • Nkk later acknowledges that the interpretation of Re as taking the real part of a complex number seems to fit the context of their inquiry.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants appear to agree that Re refers to the real part of a complex number, but the discussion remains informal and exploratory without formal consensus on broader implications or contexts.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not delve into specific mathematical definitions or formal proofs regarding the use of Re, leaving some assumptions about its application in different contexts unaddressed.

nkk2008
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I have seen the symbol Re(function) used. What does the Re stand for? I thought it was the Riemann zeta function, but I am pretty sure I am wrong (that is a lower case zeta...obviously). Is it the same as the script R?

I know this is a basic question, but I could not find documents online that clearly stated what Re was.

Thanks
Nkk
 
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I'm no mathematician, but Re(z) stands for the real part of z. (Relevant where z is complex.)

Im(z) would be the imaginary part.
 
nkk2008 said:
I have seen the symbol Re(function) used. What does the Re stand for? I thought it was the Riemann zeta function, but I am pretty sure I am wrong (that is a lower case zeta...obviously). Is it the same as the script R?

I know this is a basic question, but I could not find documents online that clearly stated what Re was.

Thanks
Nkk

Sometimes it is used to designate taking the real part of a complex number. Does that fit the context, or is that too simplistic?


EDIT -- Oops, Doc beat me on the tie!
 
Last edited:
Thank you both. Now that you both said it, it seems really obvious.

The equation I was looking at was:
f07592ed67ae0ecb6ebb466182fcfbde.png


Taking the real part makes sense, and fits well.

Thanks again,
Nkk
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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