Cauchy-Riemann Equations Overview

Aug 10, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers the Cauchy-Riemann equations, conditions for analyticity and differentiability of complex functions, and verification of these concepts with examples.

Cauchy-Riemann Equations

  • For a function ( f(z) = u(x, y) + i v(x, y) ), analyticity requires partial derivatives to exist and satisfy:
    • ( \frac{\partial u}{\partial x} = \frac{\partial v}{\partial y} )
    • ( \frac{\partial u}{\partial y} = -\frac{\partial v}{\partial x} )
  • The derivative ( f'(z) = \lim_{\Delta z \to 0} \frac{f(z+\Delta z) - f(z)}{\Delta z} ).
  • Analyticity requires both continuity and differentiability within a neighborhood around ( z ).

Verification and Examples

  • To check CR equations, compute all relevant partial derivatives of ( u ) and ( v ).
  • Example function: ( f(z) = x^2 + 2ixy - iy^2 ).
    • Real part ( u(x, y) = x^2 - y^2 ), imaginary part ( v(x, y) = 2xy ).
    • Compute derivatives: ( u_x = 2x ), ( v_y = 2x ), ( u_y = -2y ), ( v_x = 2y ).
    • CR equations are satisfied; thus, ( f(z) ) is analytic.
  • Exponential example: ( f(z) = e^x (\cos y + i\sin y) ).
    • ( u(x, y) = e^x \cos y ), ( v(x, y) = e^x \sin y ).
    • Show ( u_x = v_y ) and ( u_y = -v_x ), confirming analytic nature.

Analyticity and Differentiability

  • A function is analytic at ( z ) if CR equations are satisfied and partial derivatives are continuous.
  • If a function is analytic in a domain, it is differentiable and its derivative can be found using the formulas from CR equations.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Analytic Function — A complex function that is differentiable in a neighborhood of every point in its domain.
  • Cauchy-Riemann Equations — System of equations (\frac{\partial u}{\partial x} = \frac{\partial v}{\partial y}) and (\frac{\partial u}{\partial y} = -\frac{\partial v}{\partial x}) essential for analyticity.
  • Partial Derivative — The derivative of a function with respect to one variable, holding others constant.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Practice verifying the Cauchy-Riemann equations for various complex functions.
  • Complete any assigned problems on analyticity and differentiability of functions.
  • Review the relationship between Cauchy-Riemann equations and differentiability for exam preparation.