Find harmonic conj of u(x,y)=ln(x^2+y^2)

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In summary, the conversation discusses finding the harmonic conjugate of u(x,y)=ln(x^2+y^2) and its region of definition, as well as the reason why u does not have a harmonic conjugate on C\{0}. The solution involves converting to polar coordinates and finding v(r,Θ) = Θ, which is not continuously defined on C\{0} due to its multivalued nature at 0 and 2pi. This implies that u cannot have a harmonic conjugate on C\{0} as the Cauchy Riemann equations will not be satisfied.
  • #1
DotKite
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Homework Statement


Find harmonic conjugate of u(x,y)=ln(x^2+y^2) and specify the region it is defined
then show u has no harm conj on C\{0}


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Ok so i found the harmonic conj by converting to polar and found it to be v(r,Θ) = Θ.

I am having trouble finding out where v is defined. Also it seems our analytic function f = u + iv
is log(z) since u(r,Θ) = ln|r|. Isn't that defined everywhere but zero? Why would u not have a harmonic conj at C\{0}?
 
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  • #2
The complex log can be defined everywhere but zero, but then you cannot make it continuous.
The same problem comes up with v=Θ.
 
  • #3
mfb said:
The complex log can be defined everywhere but zero, but then you cannot make it continuous.
The same problem comes up with v=Θ.

If you don't mind, could you explain where the problem with v = Θ comes in?

Also, since v = Θ is not continuously defined on C\{0} would that mean that it doesn't have a partial, and therefore cannot satisfy cauchy riemann, which in turn is the reason why u cannot have a harm conj on C\{0}?
 
  • #4
DotKite said:
If you don't mind, could you explain where the problem with v = Θ comes in?
What happens if go around the unit circle, for example?

Also, since v = Θ is not continuously defined on C\{0} would that mean that it doesn't have a partial
I don't know what you mean here.
 
  • #5
mfb said:
What happens if go around the unit circle, for example?
Θ will go from 0 to 2pi


I don't know what you mean here.

I am trying to find the reason why v(r,Θ) not continuous on C\{0} implies u does not have a harmonic conjugate on C\{0}. Is it because if it is not continuous then it's partial derivative will not exist on C\{0}, thus implying that that Cauchy Riemann equations will not be satisfied on C\{0}?
 
  • #6
DotKite said:
Θ will go from 0 to 2pi
And what happens at the transition "close to 2 pi -> 0"?

I am trying to find the reason why v(r,Θ) not continuous on C\{0} implies u does not have a harmonic conjugate on C\{0}. Is it because if it is not continuous then it's partial derivative will not exist on C\{0}, thus implying that that Cauchy Riemann equations will not be satisfied on C\{0}?
At least not everywhere. Right.
 
  • #7
When theta gets to 2pi it repeats. So at 0 and 2pi the function is multivalued thus not continuous?
 
  • #8
DotKite said:
When theta gets to 2pi it repeats. So at 0 and 2pi the function is multivalued thus not continuous?
Right.
 
  • #9
Thanks for all the help these last couple of days mfb
 

Related to Find harmonic conj of u(x,y)=ln(x^2+y^2)

1. What is a harmonic conjugate?

A harmonic conjugate is a complex-valued function that, together with a given function, forms a pair of conjugate harmonic functions. Harmonic conjugates are commonly used in the study of complex analysis and have various applications in physics and engineering.

2. How do you find the harmonic conjugate of a given function?

To find the harmonic conjugate of a given function, you can use the Cauchy-Riemann equations, which state that the real and imaginary parts of a complex function must satisfy certain conditions. In the case of the function u(x,y) = ln(x^2+y^2), the harmonic conjugate is v(x,y) = arctan(y/x).

3. What is the purpose of finding the harmonic conjugate of a function?

The purpose of finding the harmonic conjugate of a function is to obtain a pair of conjugate harmonic functions, which can be used to solve various problems in complex analysis. Harmonic conjugates also have applications in physics and engineering, such as in the study of electric fields and fluid flow.

4. Can the harmonic conjugate be found for all functions?

No, not all functions have a harmonic conjugate. For a function to have a harmonic conjugate, it must satisfy the Cauchy-Riemann equations and be analytic in a given region. Some functions, such as those with singularities or discontinuities, do not have a harmonic conjugate.

5. How can the concept of harmonic conjugates be applied in real-life situations?

Harmonic conjugates have various applications in physics and engineering, such as in the study of electric fields, fluid flow, and heat transfer. They can also be used to solve problems in complex analysis, such as finding conformal mappings and solving Laplace's equation.

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