limz→z0f(z)=L iff:
∀ϵ>0∃δ>0∀z(0<∣z−z0∣<δ⟹∣f(z)−L∣<ϵ)
Properties
All properties mentioned in
Limits | Real Analysis are
applicable to complex limits. Additional properties are mentioned below:
Suppose limf(z)=L.
- limf(z)=L
- limRe(f(z))=Re(L)
- limIm(f(z))=Im(L)
Real and imaginary limits
Let f(z)=u(x,y)+iv(x,y), z0=x0+iy0, z=x+iy.
Suppose the real part and imaginary part limits to L1,L2, which can be
written as:
(x,y)→(x0,y0)limu(x,y)=L1(x,y)→(x0,y0)limv(x,y)=L2
Then:
z→z0limf(z)=L1+iL2
Difference from real functions
For real functions, when considering the limit at a point, the limit could be be
approaching the point either from left or right.
For complex functions, the point can be approached along any path in the complex
plane. The distance ∣z−z0∣ decreases to 0.
Notes for questions
- When 2 arbitrary paths are chosen: if the limits on each are different, then
the limit DNE.
- When substituting z=x+imx: if m doesn’t cancel out, then the limit DNE.
- In most limits, subtituting z=reiθ will simplify the limit a lot.
- In very complex functions, limits can be taken for real and imaginary parts
separately.
Important limits
z→0limzzdoesn’t exist
The above limit is important as it shows up in many questions. Can be disproved
by taking two paths: real, imaginary axes.
z→0limz+zzzdoesn’t exist
Can be proven usign taking 2 paths: real axis, t+ti.