2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K.

Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 1

Exercises involving analytic functions, harmonic func-

tions and harmonic conjugates
Some of the questions have been taken from past May exams of MA3614 and some questions
are from past class tests. The format of the past May exams was answer 3 from 4 in 3 hours
with each question worth 20 marks. Hence if a question given here was worth 10 marks then
as a percentage this was worth 16.7%. Up to December 2019 the length of the past class
tests was 70 or 75 minutes. The class tests in January 2021, December 2021, December 2022
and December 2023 were 90 minutes. (I do not include any questions from the January 2021
or May 2021 exams as these were online at-home exams, due to covid, the format of the
questions was a little different.) In all cases students had to answer all questions in the class
test to get full marks and the sub-marks added to 100 marks. In some questions the term
harmonic appears and the connection between analytic functions and harmonic functions is
likely to be covered in about week 5. Techniques to express “in terms of z only” is likely also
to be done in week 5 in the lectures or possibly slightly before.

1. Let z1 , z2 , . . . , zn be points in the complex plane and let

pn (z) = (z − z1 )(z − z2 ) · · · (z − zn ).

Prove by induction on n that

p0n (z) 1 1 1
= + + ··· + .
pn (z) z − z1 z − z2 z − zn

Solution
To start the induction consider the case when n = 1 which gives p01 (z) = 1. Thus

p01 (z) 1
=
p1 (z) z − z1
and the result is true.
For the induction hypothesis suppose that it is true with m terms with m ≥ 1. We now
consider the case with m + 1 terms and note that by the product rule

pm+1 (z) = (z − zm+1 )pm (z) and p0m+1 (z) = (z − zm+1 )p0m (z) + pm (z)

so that
p0m+1 (z) p0 (z) 1
= m + .
pm+1 (z) pm (z) z − zm+1
Now by the hypothesis we can replace the term p0m (z)/pm (z) by the sum of m terms
and hence
p0m+1 (z) 1 1
= + ··· + .
pm+1 (z) z − z1 z − zm+1
This shows that the result is also true for m + 1 terms and by induction it is true for
all m = 1, 2, . . ..
2. Let z = x + iy and f = u + iv, where as usual x, y, u and v are real, If f (z) is analytic
in a domain D then show the following.

(a) If v(x, y) = 0 in D then f (z) is a real constant.

2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 2

(b) If u(x, y) = 0 in D then f (z) is a pure imaginary constant.

(c) If |f (z)| is constant in D then f (z) is a constant. Hint: First show that if
1
φ(z) = |f (z)|2
2
then
∂φ 
0

= Re f (z)f (z) ,
∂x
∂φ 
0

= Im f (z)f (z) .
∂y
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 3

Solution

(a) If v(x, y) = 0 then since f (z) is analytic the Cauchy Riemann equations imply that

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= = 0 and =− = 0.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x

Both first partial derivatives of u being zero implies that u(x, y) is a constant.
(b) If u(x, y) = 0 then since f (z) is analytic the Cauchy Riemann equations imply that

∂v ∂u ∂v ∂u
= = 0 and =− = 0.
∂y ∂x ∂x ∂y

Both first partial derivatives of v being zero implies that v(x, y) is a constant.
(c) Let
1 1
φ(x, y) := |f (z)|2 = u(x, y)2 + v(x, y)2 .


2 2
The first partial derivatives of φ(x, y) are as follows.

∂φ ∂u ∂v
= u +v ,
∂x ∂x ∂x
∂φ ∂u ∂v ∂v ∂u
= u +v = −u +v
∂y ∂y ∂y ∂x ∂x
where the last version follows by using the Cauchy Riemann equations. Both these
first partial derivatives of φ are zero as φ is a constant.
Now f 0 (z) can be expressed in the form

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
f 0 (z) = +i and thus f 0 (z) = −i
∂x ∂x ∂x ∂x
and
 
∂u ∂v
f (z)f 0 (z) = (u + iv) −i
∂x ∂x
   
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= u +v +i v −u .
∂x ∂x ∂x ∂x

By comparing the expression for f (z)f 0 (z) and the earlier expressions for the partial
derivatives of φ it follows that if φ(x, y) is constant then

f (z)f 0 (z) = 0.

As we are given that |f (z)| is a constant in D it follows that if f (z) = 0 at any

point then f (z) is the constant 0 throughout the domain D. If f (z) 6= 0 at all
points then this implies that f 0 (z) = 0 at all points and thus f (z) is a constant.
Hence in all cases f (z) is constant.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 4

3. This was in the class test in December 2023 and was worth 19 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of your functions you need to determine if it is
analytic in the complex plane C or if it is not analytic in C.
If a function is analytic in C then express it in terms of z alone. Full reasoning must be
given to get all the marks.

f1 (x + iy) = x2 + y 2 ,
f2 (x + iy) = (2x − 3y) + i(−3x − 2y),
f3 (x + iy) = (−x − 2y + 3x2 − 3y 2 + 2xy) + i(2x − y − x2 + y 2 + 6xy).

Solution

f1 (x + iy) = x2 + y 2 , has u = x2 + y 2 , v = 0.
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= 2x, = 0, = 2y, = 0.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
The Cauchy Riemann equations only hold when x = y = 0. As the equations do not
hold in a neighbourhood of this point the function is not analytic at any point.

f2 (x + iy) = (2x − 3y) + i(−3x − 2y), has u = 2x − 3y, v = −3x − 2y.

∂u ∂v
= 2, = −2.
∂x ∂y
The Cauchy Riemann equations do not hold at any point. The function is not analytic
at any point.

f3 (x + iy) = (−x − 2y + 3x2 − 3y 2 + 2xy) + i(2x − y − x2 + y 2 + 6xy),

gives
u = −x − 2y + 3x2 − 3y 2 + 2xy, v = 2x − y − x2 + y 2 + 6xy.
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= −1 + 6x + 2y, = −1 + 2y + 6x, = −2 − 6y + 2x, = 2 − 2x + 6y.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations hold and thus the function is analytic at all points.
The function f3 (z) is polynomial of degree 2 in z. We can get the z only form by using
the finite Maclaurin representation.
f300 (0) 2
f3 (z) = f3 (0) + f30 (0)z + z .
2
f3 (0) = 0,
∂u ∂v
f30 (z) = +i = (−1 + 6x + 2y) + i(2 − 2x + 6y), f30 (0) = −1 + 2i.
∂x ∂x
∂ 0
f300 (z) = f (z) = 6 − 2i.
∂x 3
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 5

f3 (z) = (−1 + 2i)z + (3 − i)z 2 .

As a check, if we let y = 0 in the expression in the question then we get

f3 (x) = (−x + 3x2 ) + i(2x − x2 ) = (−1 + 2i)x + (3 − i)x2 .

4. This was in the class test in December 2023 and was worth 19 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
Let x, y ∈ R and let

u(x, y) = x3 − 3xy 2 + 3x2 y − y 3 + sin(x) ey + e−y .

Show that u is harmonic.

Find the harmonic conjugate v(x, y) satisfying v(1, 0) = 0.
Solution

∂u ∂ 2u
= 3x2 − 3y 2 + 6xy + cos(x) ey + e−y , y −y



2 = 6x + 6y − sin(x) e + e ,
∂x ∂x
∂u ∂ 2u
= −6xy + 3x2 − 3y 2 + sin(x) ey − e−y , y −y



2 = −6x − 6y + sin(x) e + e ,
∂y ∂y
Thus ∇2 u = 0 and u is harmonic.
To get v we use the Cauchy Riemann equations.
∂v ∂u
= 6xy − 3x2 + 3y 2 − sin(x) ey − e−y .


=−
∂x ∂y
Partially integrate with respect to x gives

v(x, y) = 3x2 y − x3 + 3xy 2 + cos(x) ey − e−y + g(y)

for any differentiable function g(y). Next partially differentiating with respect to y and
using the other Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= 3x2 + 6xy + cos(x) ey + e−y + g 0 (y) = = 3x2 − 3y 2 + 6xy + cos(x) ey + e−y ,



∂y ∂x

and this gives g 0 (y) = −3y 2 and g(y) = −y 3 + C where C is a constant.

v(x, y) = 3x2 y − x3 + 3xy 2 − y 3 + cos(x) ey − e−y + C.

v(1, 0) = −1 + C = 0 gives C = 1.

5. This was in the class test in December 2022 and was worth 28 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 6

(a) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of your functions you need to determine if
it is analytic in the complex plane C or if it is not analytic in C.
If a function is analytic in C then express it in terms of z alone. Full reasoning
must be given to get all the marks.
f1 (x + iy) = x + x2 − y 2 + i(−y − 2xy),
f2 (x + iy) = (2x + 3y + 5x2 − 5y 2 + 2xy) + i(−3x + 2y − x2 + y 2 + 10xy).
(b) Let x, y ∈ R. If φ(x, y) is harmonic then explain why
∂φ ∂φ
g(x, y) = −i
∂x ∂y
is analytic.

Solution

(a) Let u = x + x2 − y 2 and v = −y − 2xy.

∂u ∂v
= 1, = −1 − 2x.
∂x ∂y
The Cauchy Riemann equation involving these two first partial derivatives is only
satisfied when 1 = −1 − 2x, i.e. when x = −1. The equation is not satisfied in the
neighbourhood of any point on the line. Hence f1 is not analytic.
Now let
u = 2x + 3y + 5x2 − 5y 2 + 2xy and v = −3x + 2y − x2 + y 2 + 10xy.
∂u ∂v
= 2 + 10x + 2y, = 2 + 2y + 10x,
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= 3 − 10y + 2x, = −3 − 2x + 10y.
∂y ∂x
The Cauchy Riemann equations of
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= , =−
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
are satisfied and hence the function f2 is analytic.
f2 is a polynomial of degree 2 and has the finite Maclaurin series representation
f200 (0) 2
f2 (z) = f2 (0) + f20 (0)z + z .
2
f2 (0) = 0.
∂u ∂v
f20 (z) = +i = 2 + 10x + 2y + i(−3 − 2x + 10y), f20 (0) = 2 − 3i.
∂x ∂x
∂ 0
f200 (z) = f (z) = 10 − 2i.
∂x 2
Thus
f2 (z) = (2 − 3i)z + (5 − i)z 2 .
As a check on the expression, letting y = 0 in the expression in the question gives
f2 (x) = (2x + 5x2 ) + i(−3x − x2 ) = (2 − 3i)x + (5 − i)x2 .
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 7

(b) g = u + iv with
∂φ ∂φ
u= and v = − .
∂x ∂y
∂ 2φ
 2 
∂u ∂v ∂ φ
− = 2 − − = ∇2 φ = 0
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂y 2
as φ is harmonic.
∂u ∂v ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
+ = − =0
∂y ∂x ∂y∂x ∂x∂y
as mixed partial derivatives can be done in any order. As both Cauchy Riemann
equations are satisfied the function g(z) is analytic.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 8

6. This was in the class test in December 2021 and was worth 25 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
In this question the version that you do depends on the 6th digit of your 7-digit stu-
dent id.. If the 6th digit is one of the digits 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 then you do part (a) whilst if
it is one of the digits 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 then you do part (b).

(a) This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4.
Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of your functions you need to determine if
it is analytic in C or it is not analytic in C, and if a function is analytic express it
in terms of z alone. Full reasoning must be given to get all the marks.
f1 (x + iy) = (−2x2 − 10xy + 6x + 2y 2 + 15y) + i(5x2 − 4xy − 15x − 5y 2 + 6y),
f2 (x + iy) = (x − 2y) + i(−2x − y).

(b) This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of your functions you need to determine if
it is analytic in C or it is not analytic in C, and if a function is analytic express it
in terms of z alone. Full reasoning must be given to get all the marks.
f1 (x + iy) = (2x + y) + i(x − 2y),
f2 (x + iy) = (−12x2 − 18xy + 4x + 12y 2 + 3y) + i(9x2 − 24xy − 3x − 9y 2 + 4y).

Solution

(a) This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 0, 1, 2, 3, 4.
Let u and v denote the real and imaginary parts of f1 (z). The first partial deriva-
tives are
∂u ∂v
= −4x − 10y + 6, = −4x − 10y + 6,
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= −10x + 4y + 15, = 10x − 4y − 15.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and thus f1 is analytic.
f1 (z) is a polynomial in z of degree 2 and has the finite Maclaurin expansion
f100 (0) 2
f1 (z) = f1 (0) + f10 (0)z + z .
2
f1 (0) = 0.
∂u ∂v
f10 (z) = + i , f10 (0) = 6 − 15i.
∂x ∂x
00
f1 (z) = −4 + 10i.
Hence
f1 (z) = (6 − 15i)z + (−2 + 5i)z 2 = (2 − 5i)(3z − z 2 ).
Now let u and v denote the real and imaginary parts of f2 (z). The first partial
derivatives are
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= 1, = −1, = −2, = −2.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 9

The Cauchy Riemann equations do not hold at any point and this f2 (z) is not
analytic at any point.

(b) This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 5, 6, 7, 8, 9.
Let u and v denote the real and imaginary parts of f1 (z). The first partial deriva-
tives are
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= 2, = −2, = 1, = 1.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
The Cauchy Riemann equations do not hold at any point and this f1 (z) is not
analytic at any point.
Now let u and v denote the real and imaginary parts of f2 (z). The first partial
derivatives are
∂u ∂v
= −24x − 18y + 4, = −24x − 18y + 4,
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= −18x + 24y + 3, = 18x − 24y − 3.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and thus f2 is analytic.
f2 (z) is a polynomial in z of degree 2 and has the finite Maclaurin expansion

f200 (0) 2
f2 (z) = f2 (0) + f20 (0)z + z .
2
f2 (0) = 0.
∂u ∂v
f20 (z) = + i , f20 (0) = 4 − 3i.
∂x ∂x
00
f2 (z) = −24 + 18i.
Hence
f2 (z) = (4 − 3i)z + (−12 + 9i)z 2 = (4 − 3i)(z − 3z 2 ).

7. This was in the class test in December 2022 and was worth 11 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
Let x, y ∈ R and let
u(x, y) = −5x4 y + 10x2 y 3 − y 5 .
Show that u is harmonic and find the harmonic conjugate v(x, y) satisfying v(1, 0) = 2.

Solution

∂u ∂ 2u
= −20x3 y + 20xy 3 , 2
2 = −60x y + 20y .
3
∂x ∂x
∂u ∂ 2u
= −5x4 + 30x2 y 2 − 5y 4 , = 60x2 y − 20y 3 .
∂y ∂y 2
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 10

Thus ∇2 u = 0.
v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations.
∂v ∂u
=− = 5x4 − 30x2 y 2 + 5y 4 .
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v = x5 − 10x3 y 2 + 5xy 4 + g(y)

for any differentiable function g(y). Next partially differentiating with respect to y and
using the other Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= −20x3 y + 20xy 3 + g 0 (y) = = −20x3 y + 20xy 3
∂y ∂x

and thus g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = C, where C is a constant.

v = x5 − 10x3 y 2 + 5xy 4 + C, v(1, 0) = 1 + C = 2, C = 1.

8. This was in the class test in December 2021 and was worth 15 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
In this question the version that you do depends on the 6th digit of your 7-digit stu-
dent id.. If the 6th digit is one of the digits 0, 2, 4, 6, 8 then

u(x, y) = −ey sin(x) − 2e−x sin(y)

whilst if it is one of the digits 1, 3, 5, 7, 9 then

u(x, y) = ey cos(x) + 2e−x cos(y)

with in all cases x, y ∈ R. Show that your version of u(x, y) is a harmonic function and
determine the harmonic conjugate v(x, y) satisfying v(0, 0) = 4.
Solution
This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 0, 2, 4, 6, 8.

∂u ∂u
= −ey cos(x) + 2e−x sin(y), = −ey sin(x) − 2e−x cos(y),
∂x ∂y
∂ 2u ∂ 2u
= ey sin(x) − 2e−x sin(y) = −ey sin(x) + 2e−x sin(y), ∇2 u = 0.
∂x2 ∂y 2
The harmonic conjugate v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations and by
using one of these we have
∂v ∂u
=− = ey sin(x) + 2e−x cos(y).
∂x ∂y
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 11

Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v(x, y) = −ey cos(x) − 2e−x cos(y) + g(y), for any differentiable function g(y).

Partially differentiating with respect to y and using the other Cauchy Riemann equation
gives
∂v ∂u
= −ey cos(x) + 2e−x sin(y) + g 0 (y) = = −ey cos(x) + 2e−x sin(y),
∂y ∂x

Thus g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = C, where C is a constant. v(0, 0) = −3 + C = 4 if C = 7.

The harmonic conjugate is

v(x, y) = −ey cos(x) − 2e−x cos(y) + 7.

This is the version if the 6th digit is one of the digits of 1, 3, 5, 7, 9.

∂u ∂u
= −ey sin(x) − 2e−x cos(y), = ey cos(x) − 2e−x sin(y),
∂x ∂y
∂ 2u ∂ 2u
= −ey cos(x) + 2e−x cos(y) = ey cos(x) − 2e−x cos(y), ∇2 u = 0.
∂x2 ∂y 2
The harmonic conjugate v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations and by
using one of these we have
∂v ∂u
=− = −ey cos(x) + 2e−x sin(y).
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v(x, y) = −ey sin(x) − 2e−x sin(y) + g(y), for any differentiable function g(y).

Partially differentiating with respect to y and using the other Cauchy Riemann equation
gives
∂v ∂u
= −ey sin(x) − 2e−x cos(y) + g 0 (y) = = −ey sin(x) − 2e−x cos(y),
∂y ∂x

Thus g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = C, where C is a constant. v(0, 0) = 0 + C = 4 if C = 4. The

harmonic conjugate is

v(x, y) = −ey sin(x) − 2e−x sin(y) + 4.

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9. This was in the class test in December 2019 and was worth 25 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
Let f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y) where z = x + iy with x, y, u, v ∈ R.
State the Cauchy Riemann equations.
Let
u(x, y) = 2x + y + x2 − y 2 − 2xy.
Show that this function is harmonic and determine the harmonic conjugate v which
satisfies v(0, 0) = 1.
Express the function f = u + iv in terms of z alone. You need to give reasoning for
your answer.
Solution
The Cauchy Riemann equations are
∂u ∂v ∂v ∂u
= , =− .
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂y

For the given function u we have

∂u ∂u
= 2 + 2x − 2y, = 1 − 2y − 2x.
∂x ∂y
Thus
∂ 2u ∂ 2u 2
= 2, 2 = −2 and ∇ u = 0.
∂x2 ∂y
The function u is harmonic.
By using one of the Cauchy Riemann equations we have
∂v ∂u
=− = −1 + 2y + 2x
∂x ∂y
and partially integrating with respect to y gives

v = −x + 2xy + x2 + g(y)

for any function g(y). Partially differentiating this expression and using the other
Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= 2x + g 0 (y) = = 2 + 2x − 2y, which implies that g 0 (y) = 2 − 2y.
∂y ∂x
Hence
g(y) = 2y − y 2 + C,
where C is a constant. To satisfy v(0, 0) = 1 we need C = 1 and this gives

f = u + iv = (2x + y + x2 − y 2 − 2xy) + i(−x + 2xy + x2 + 2y − y 2 + 1).

2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 13

f (z) is a polynomial of degree 2.

∂f
f 0 (z) = = (2 + 2x − 2y) + i(−1 + 2y + 2x),
∂x
00 ∂ 2f
f (z) = = 2 + 2i.
∂x2
Now f (0) = i, f 0 (0) = 2−i and f 00 (0) = 2+2i. The finite Maclaurin series representation
gives
f 00 (0) 2
f (z) = f (0) + f 0 (0)z + z = i + (2 − i)z + (1 + i)z 2 .
2

10. This was in the class test in December 2018 and was worth 26 of the 100 marks on the
paper.
Let f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y) where z = x + iy with x, y, u, v ∈ R.
State the Cauchy Riemann equations.
By using the Cauchy Riemann equations, or otherwise, determine if the following func-
tions are analytic in C. If a function is analytic then express it in terms of z alone.

(a)
f (x + iy) = (x3 − 3xy 2 ) + i(−3x2 y + y 3 ).
(b)

g(x + iy) = (y 3 − 3x2 y + 2xy + 2x2 − 2y 2 ) + i(x3 − 3xy 2 + 4xy − x2 + y 2 ).

Solution
The Cauchy Riemann equations are
∂u ∂v ∂v ∂u
= , =− .
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂y

(a) f = u + iv with u = x3 − 3xy 2 and v = −3x2 y + y 3 .

∂u ∂v
= 3x2 − 3y 2 , = −3x2 + 3y 2 .
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= only when x2 = y 2 .
∂x ∂y
Points on the lines x2 = y 2 do not have neighbourhoods which are also all on these
lines and hence f (z) is not analytic at any point.
(b) g = u + iv with u = y 3 − 3x2 y + 2xy + 2x2 − 2y 2 and v = x3 − 3xy 2 + 4xy − x2 + y 2 .

∂u ∂v
= −6xy + 2y + 4x =
∂x ∂y
and
∂u ∂v
= 3y 2 − 3x2 + 2x − 4y, = 3x2 − 3y 2 + 4y − 2x.
∂y ∂x
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 14

Hence
∂u ∂v
=− .
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations hold and hence g(z) is analytic.
g(z) is a polynomial of degree 3 and is given by the finite Maclaurin representation

0 g 00 (0) 2 g 000 (0) 3

g(z) = g(0) + g (0)z + z + z .
2 6
g(0) = 0.

∂g
g 0 (z) = = −6xy + 2y + 4x + i(3x2 − 3y 2 + 4y − 2x),
∂x
∂ 2g
g 00 (z) = = −6y + 4 + i(6x − 2),
∂x2
g 000 (z) = 6i.

g 0 (0) = 0, g 00 (0) = 4 − 2i, g 000 (0) = 6i.

g(z) = (2 − i)z 2 + iz 3 .
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 15

11. This was question 1 of the May 2024 exam paper.

(a) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of the following functions determine if they
are analytic in the complex plane, giving reasons for your answer in each case.
i.
f1 (z) = (2x3 + 3x2 y − 6xy 2 − y 3 ) + i(−x3 + 6x2 y + 3xy 2 − 2y 3 ).
ii.
∂φ ∂φ
f2 (z) = +i ,
∂y ∂x
where φ(x, y) denotes any function which is harmonic at all points (x, y).
iii.
f3 (z) = sinh(x) cos(y) + i cosh(x) sin(y).
iv.
f4 (z) = e2x (cos(2y) − i sin(2y)) .
(b) Let D = {z : |z| > 0} and let z = reiθ where r ≥ 0 and θ ∈ R denote the usual
polar coordinates. Further let

cos(θ)
u(r, θ) = .
r
It can be shown that u(r, θ) is harmonic in D. It can also be shown that the
following function is analytic in D.
 
1 ∂u i ∂u
g(z) = iθ − .
e ∂r r ∂θ

Give an expression for the value g(z) in terms of r and θ and also write it in terms
of z alone.
(c) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R and let a0 , a1 , a2 , b1 and b2 denote non-zero complex
numbers. Consider the following three functions h1 (z), h2 (z) and h3 (z).

h1 (x + iy) = (3x + 2y + 2xy) + i(−2x + 3y − x2 + y 2 ),

h2 (z) = ψ2 (z), where ψ2 (z) = a0 + a1 z + a2 z 2 ,
1 b1 z + 1
h3 (z) = , where ψ3 (z) = .
ψ3 (z) b2 z + 1

i. Show that h1 (x + iy) is analytic and express in terms of z alone.

ii. It can be shown that h2 (z) and h3 (z) are analytic. In each case express them
in terms of z alone.
iii. Give the most general conditions on a0 , a1 and a2 such that h2 (z) = ψ2 (z) for
all z.
iv. Give the most general conditions on b1 and b2 such that h3 (z) = ψ3 (z) for all z.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 16

Solution

(a) i. Let u = 2x3 + 3x2 y − 6xy 2 − y 3 and v = −x3 + 6x2 y + 3xy 2 − 2y 3 .

∂u ∂v
= 6x2 + 6xy − 6y 2 = .
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= 3x2 − 12xy − 3y 2 , = −3x2 + 12xy + 3y 2 .
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and hence f1 is analytic.
ii. In this case
∂φ ∂φ
u= and v = .
∂y ∂x
∂u ∂v ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
− = − =0
∂x ∂y ∂x∂y ∂y∂x
as mixed partial derivatives can be done in any order. For the other Cauchy
Riemann equation
∂u ∂v ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
+ = 2 + 2 =0
∂y ∂x ∂y ∂x
as φ is harmonic. Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and thus f2
is analytic.
iii. Let u = sinh x cos y and v = cosh x sin y.
∂u ∂v
= cosh x cos y = .
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= − sinh x sin y, = sinh x sin y.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and thus f3 is analytic.
iv. Let u = e2x cos(2y) and v = −e2x sin(2y).

∂u ∂v
= 2e2x cos(2y), = −2e2x cos(2y).
∂x ∂y

These are only the same when cos(2y) = 0.

∂u ∂v
= −2e2x sin(2y), = −2e2x sin(2y).
∂y ∂y
The Cauchy Riemann equation involving these two partial derivatives is only
satisfied when sin(2y) = 0. As we cannot have both cos(2y) = 0 and sin(2y) =
0 the Cauchy Riemann equations are not satisfied at any point and thus f4 is
not analytic.
(b)
∂u 1 ∂u 1
= − 2 cos(θ), = − sin(θ).
∂r r ∂θ r
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 17

Thus
 
1 cos(θ) sin(θ)
g(z) = iθ − 2 +i 2
e r r
1
= − 2 iθ (cos(θ) − i sin(θ))
r e
1 1 1
= − 2 iθ e−iθ = − 2 2iθ = − 2 .


r e r e z

(c) i. For h1 = u + iv we have u = 3x + 2y + 2xy, v = −2x + 3y − x2 + y 2 .

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= 3 + 2y = , and = 2 + 2x, = −2 − 2x.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied at all points which shows that
the function is analytic. It is a polynomial of degree 2 and in terms of z we
have
h00 (0)
h1 (z) = h1 (0) + h01 (0)z + 1 z 2 .
2
h1 (0) = 0.

∂
h01 (z) = h1 (x + iy) = (3 + 2y) + i(−2 − 2x), h01 (0) = 3 − 2i.
∂x
∂
h001 (z) = (h01 (x + iy)) = −2i.
∂x
h1 (z) = (3 − 2i)z − iz 2 .
ii.
ψ2 (z) = a0 + a1 z + a2 z 2 .
h2 (z) = ψ2 (z) = a0 + a1 z + a2 z 2 .

b1 z + 1 b1 z + 1
ψ3 (z) = , ψ3 (z) = ,
b2 z + 1 b2 z + 1
and hence
b2 z + 1
h3 (z) = .
b1 z + 1
iii. h2 (z) = ψ2 (z) if and only if a0 , a1 and a2 are all real so that a0 = a0 , a1 = a1
and a2 = a2 .
iv. h3 (z) and ψ3 (z) have a zero and a pole at the same point if b1 = b2 .

12. This was question 1 of the May 2023 exam paper.

(a) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of the following functions, determine

whether or not it is analytic in the entire complex plane giving reasons for your
answers in each case. In the case of f4 (z) the real valued functions p(x, y) and
q(x, y) are such that p(x, y) + iq(x, y) is analytic in the entire complex plane.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 18

i.
f1 (z) = (x − 2xy) + i(−y − x2 + y 2 ).
ii.
f2 (z) = (−y + 2x3 − 6xy 2 ) + i(x + 6x2 y − 2y 3 ).
iii.
f3 (z) = e−x−3y (cos(3x − y) + i sin(3x − y)).
iv.
f4 (z) = (xp(x, y) − yq(x, y)) + i(yp(x, y) + xq(x, y)).
(b) Let u(x, y) = cosh(x) cos(y). The function u is harmonic. Find the harmonic
conjugate v(x, y) such that v(0, 0) = 0.
(c) Let z = reiθ with r > 0 and −π < θ ≤ π and let

u(r, θ) = r1/3 cos(θ/3), v(r, θ) = r1/3 sin(θ/3), and g(reiθ ) = u(r, θ) + iv(r, θ).

Give the first order partial derivatives

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
, , and
∂r ∂θ ∂θ ∂r
in the part of the complex plane where the derivatives exist. The Cauchy Riemann
equations in polar coordinates r and θ are
∂u 1 ∂v 1 ∂u ∂v
= and =− .
∂r r ∂θ r ∂θ ∂r
In which part of the complex plane is g(reiθ ) analytic?
Determine in terms of r and θ the simplest cartesian form of the following limit.

g((r + h)eiθ ) − g(reiθ )

lim .
h→0 heiθ
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 19

Solution

(a) i. Let f1 = u + iv with

u = x − 2xy and v = −y − x2 + y 2 .
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= 1 − 2y, = −1 + 2y, = −2x, = −2x.
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
The Cauchy Riemann equations only hold when x = 0 and 4y = 2. As the
equations do not hold in a neighbourhood of the point the function f1 is not
analytic at any point.
ii. Let f2 = u + iv with
u = −y + 2x3 − 6xy 2 and v = x + 6x2 y − 2y 3 .
∂u ∂v
= 6x2 − 6y 2 , and = 6x2 − 6y 2 .
∂x ∂y
Also
∂u ∂v
= −1 − 12xy and = 1 + 12xy.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and the function f2 is analytic
at all points.
iii. Let f3 = u + iv with
u = e−x−3y cos(3x − y) and v = e−x−3y sin(3x − y).

∂u
= e−x−3y (−3 sin(3x − y)) − ex−3y cos(3x − y),
∂x
∂v
= e−x−3y (− cos(3x − y)) + (−3e−x−3y ) sin(3x − y),
∂y
∂u
= e−x−3y sin(3x − y) + (−3e−x−3y ) cos(3x − y),
∂y
∂v
= e−x−3y (3 cos(3x − y)) + (−e−x−3y ) sin(3x − y).
∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and the function f3 is analytic
at all points.
iv. Let f4 = u + iv with
u = xp(x, y) − yq(x, y) and v = yp(x, y) + xq(x, y).
   
∂u ∂v ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
− = x +p−y − y +p+x =0
∂x ∂y ∂x ∂x ∂y ∂y
as p + iq being analytic implies that
∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
= and =− .
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
Also    
∂u ∂v ∂p ∂q ∂p ∂q
+ = x −y −q + y +x +q =0
∂y ∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x ∂x
as p and q satisfy the Cauchy Riemann equations.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 20

(b) v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations and

∂v ∂u
=− = cosh(x) sin(y).
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v = sinh(x) sin(y) + g(y)

for any differentiable function g(y). Partially differentiating with respect to y and
using the other Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= sinh(x) cos(y) + g 0 (y) = = sinh(x) cos(y).
∂y ∂x

Thus g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = C, a constant. The condition v(0, 0) = 0 gives C = 0

and thus
v = sinh(x) sin(y).
(c)
∂u 1 ∂v 1
= r−2/3 cos(θ/3), = r1/3 cos(θ/3).
∂r 3 ∂θ 3
∂u 1 ∂v 1
= − r1/3 sin(θ/3), = r−2/3 sin(θ/3).
∂θ 3 ∂r 3
g is analytic where the partial derivatives exist and are continuous and the Cauchy
Riemann equations hold. In this case this is
 iθ
re : r > 0, −π < θ < π .

It is not analytic on the radial line θ = π as there is a jump discontinuity.

g((r + h)eiθ ) − g(reiθ )

 
1 ∂u ∂v
lim = iθ +i
h→0 heiθ e ∂r ∂r
1 1 1
= r−2/3 e−iθ (cos(θ/3) + i sin(θ/3)) = r−2/3 e−iθ eiθ/3 = r−2/3 ei(−2θ/3)
3 3 3
1 −2/3
= r (cos(2θ/3) − i sin(2θ/3)) .
3
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 21

13. This was question 1 of the May 2022 exam paper.

(a) Let z = x+iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of the following functions, determine whether
or not it is analytic in the entire complex plane giving reasons for your answers
in each case. In the case of f4 (z) the function φ(x, y) is an infinitely continuously
differentiable harmonic function.
i.
f1 (z) = (x − y) − i(x + y).
ii.
f2 (z) = (x3 − 3xy 2 − 4xy) + i(3x2 y − y 3 + 2x2 − 2y 2 ).
iii.
f3 (z) = ex (2 cos(y) − sin(y)) + iex (cos(y) + 2 sin(y)).
iv.
∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
f4 (z) = + i 2.
∂x∂y ∂x
(b) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R and let

g(x + iy) = (x4 − 6x2 y 2 + y 4 − 2xy) + i(4x3 y − 4xy 3 + x2 − y 2 ).

The function g(z) is analytic. Express g(z) in terms of z alone. You must justify
your answer.
(c) Let x, y ∈ R and let

u(x, y) = cos(x) cosh(y) + sin(x) sinh(y).

The function u(x, y) is harmonic (you do not need to verify this). Determine the
harmonic conjugate v(x, y) satisfying v(0, 0) = 1.
The analytic function f (x + iy) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y) can be written as a linear
combination of eiz and e−iz , i.e. as

ceiz + de−iz ,

where c and d are complex constants. Determine the constants c and d.

2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 22

Solution

(a) i. Let f1 = u + iv with

u = x − y, v = −x − y.
∂u ∂v
= 1, = −1.
∂x ∂y
One of the Cauchy Riemann equations is not satisfied and hence f1 (z) is not
analytic at any point.
ii. Let f2 = u + iv with

u = x3 − 3xy 2 − 4xy, v = 3x2 y − y 3 + 2x2 − 2y 2 .

∂u ∂v
= 3x2 − 3y 2 − 4y, = 3x2 − 3y 2 − 4y.
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= −6xy − 4x, = 6xy + 4x.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied at all points and thus f2 is
analytic at all points.
iii. Let f3 = u + iv with

u = ex (2 cos(y) − sin(y)), v = ex (cos(y) + 2 sin(y)).

∂u ∂v
= u = ex (2 cos(y) − sin(y)), = ex (− sin(y) + 2 cos(y)).
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= ex (−2 sin(y) − cos(y)), = v = ex (cos(y) + 2 sin(y)).
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied at all points and thus f3 is
analytic at all points.
iv. Let f4 = u + iv with
∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
u= , v= .
∂x∂y ∂x2
∂u ∂v ∂ 3φ ∂ 3φ
− = 2 − = 0,
∂x ∂y ∂ x∂y ∂y∂x2
as mixed partial differentiation can be done in any order.

∂ 3φ ∂ 3φ ∂ ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
 
∂u ∂v
+ = + = + = 0,
∂y ∂x ∂y∂x∂y ∂ 3 x ∂x ∂y 2 ∂x2

as mixed partial differentiation can be done in any order and φ is harmonic.

(b) As g(z) is analytic we can get the derivatives by partially differentiating in the x
direction. Hence

g 0 (z) = (4x3 − 12xy 2 − 2y) + i(12x2 y − 4y 3 + 2x), g 0 (0) = 0.

g 00 (z) = (12x2 − 12y 2 ) + i(24xy + 2), g 00 (0) = 2i.

2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 23

g 000 (z) = 24x + i(24y), g 000 (0) = 0.

g 0000 (z) = 24.
Now g(0) = 0 and the finite Maclaurin series representation is

0 g 00 (0) 2 g 000 (0) 3 g 0000 (0) 4

g(z) = g(0) + g (0)z + z + z + z = iz 2 + z 4 .
2 6 24
As an added check, letting y = 0 in the expression for g gives g(x) = x4 + ix2 .
(c) v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations.
∂v ∂u
=− = − cos(x) sinh(y) − sin(x) cosh(y).
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v = − sin(x) sinh(y) + cos(x) cosh(y) + g(y)

for any differentiable function g(y). Partially differentiating this version of v with
respect to y and using the other Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= − sin(x) cosh(y)+cos(x) sinh(y)+g 0 (y) = = − sin(x) cosh(y)+cos(x) sinh(y)
∂y ∂x
and hence g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = c is a constant.

v(0, 0) = 1 + c = 1, c = 0.

v(x, y) = − sin(x) sinh(y) + cos(x) cosh(y)

and

f (z) = cos(x) cosh(y) + sin(x) sinh(y) + i(− sin(x) sinh(y) + cos(x) cosh(y)).

Setting y = 0 gives
f (x) = cos(x) + i cos(x).
Let
h(z) = (1 + i) cos(z).
As f (z) and h(z) are both entire and agree on the real axis they must be the same
for all z as the zeros of a non-zero analytic functions are isolated. The zeros of
f (z) − h(z) are not isolated.

e + e−iz
 iz 
h(z) = (1 + i)
2
and thus
1+i
c=d= .
2

14. This was most of question 1 of the May 2020 MA3614 paper.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 24

(a) Let z = x + iy, with x, y ∈ R. Let f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y) denote a function
defined in the complex plane C, with u and v being real-valued functions which
have continuous partial derivatives of all orders.
State the Cauchy Riemann equations for an analytic function in terms of partial
derivatives of u and v with respect to x and y.
The Cauchy Riemann equations in polar coordinates r and θ for an analytic func-
tion f (reiθ ) = ũ(r, θ) + iṽ(r, θ), with ũ(r, θ) and ṽ(r, θ) being real, are

∂ ũ 1 ∂ṽ 1 ∂ ũ ∂ṽ
= and =− .
∂r r ∂θ r ∂θ ∂r
In the case of f (z) = 1/z, z 6= 0, give ũ, ṽ and the first order partial derivatives

∂ ũ ∂ṽ ∂ ũ ∂ṽ
, , and .
∂r ∂θ ∂θ ∂r

(b) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of the following functions, determine

whether or not it is analytic in the complex plane, giving reasons for your answers
in each case.
i.
f1 (z) = 3x − iy.
ii.
f2 (z) = −3x2 y + y 3 + i(x3 − 3xy 2 ).
iii.
f3 (z) = sinh(x) cos(y) − i cosh(x) sin(y).
iv.
∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
f4 (z) = −i 2
∂x∂y ∂y
where φ(x, y) is a harmonic function with partial derivatives of all orders being
continuous.
(c) The function u(x, y) = cosh(2x) cos(2y) is harmonic for all x and y. Determine
the harmonic conjugate v(x, y) such that v(0, 0) = 0 and indicate all the zeros of
the analytic function u(x, y) + iv(x, y).
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 25

Solution

(a) The Cauchy Riemann equations are

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= , =− .
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x

1 1 1
f (z) = = e−iθ = (cos(θ) − i sin(θ)).
z r r
Thus
cos(θ) sin(θ)
ũ = , ṽ = −
r r
and
∂ ũ cos(θ) ∂ṽ sin(θ) ∂ ũ sin(θ) ∂ṽ cos(θ)
=− 2 , = , =− and =− .
∂r r ∂r r2 ∂θ r ∂θ r
(b) i. For f1 let
u = 3x and v = −y.
∂u ∂v
= 3, = −1.
∂x ∂y
One of the Cauchy Riemann equations is not satisfied and hence f1 is not
analytic.
ii. For f2 let
u = −3x2 y + y 3 and v = x3 − 3xy 2 .
∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= −6xy = and = −3x2 + 3y 2 , = 3x2 − 3y 2 .
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and thus f2 is analytic.
iii. For f3 let
u = sinh(x) cos(y) and v = − cosh(x) sin(y).

∂u ∂v
− = cosh(x) cos(y) + cosh(x) cos(y) = 2 cosh(x) cos(y),
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
+ = − sinh(x) sin(y) − sinh(x) sin(y) = −2 sinh(x) sin(y).
∂y ∂x
The first equation is only satisfied when cos(y) = 0. When this is the case
| sin(y)| = 1 and the second equation is only satisfied as well when x = 0. Both
equations are only satisfied at isolated points and as they are not satisfied in
the neighbourhood of any point the function f3 is not analytic.
iv. For f4 let
∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
u= and v = − 2 .
∂x∂y ∂y

∂u ∂v ∂ 3φ ∂ 3φ
− = +
∂x ∂y ∂x2 ∂y ∂y 3
∂ ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
 
= + =0
∂y ∂x2 ∂y 2
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 26

as mixed partial derivatives can be done in any order and because φ is har-
monic.

∂u ∂v ∂ 3φ ∂ 3φ
+ = − =0
∂y ∂x ∂x∂y 2 ∂x∂y 2
as mixed partial derivatives can be done in any order. Both Cauchy Riemann
equations are satisfied and thus f4 is analytic.
(c) Using the Cauchy Riemann equations the harmonic conjugate v satisfies
∂v ∂u
=− = 2 cosh(2x) sin(2y).
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v = sinh(2x) sin(2y) + g(y)

for some function g(y). Partially differentiating with respect to y and using the
other Cauchy Riemann equation gives
∂v ∂u
= 2 sinh(2x) cos(2y) + g 0 (y) = = 2 sinh(2x) cos(2y)
∂y ∂x
and thus g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) is a constant. To satisfy v(0, 0) = 0 we have g(y) = 0
and
v = sinh(2x) sin(2y).
As cosh(2x) ≥ 1 we have u(x y) = 0 only when cos(2y) = 0. When cos(2y) = 0
we have |v(x, y)| = | sinh(2x)| and v(x, y) = 0 is only satisfied in this case when
x = 0. The set of points where u + iv = 0 is thus
   
π kπ
i + : k∈Z .
4 2

15. This was most of question 1 of the May 2019 MA3614 paper and was worth 16 of the 20
marks.

(a) Let z = x + iy, with x, y ∈ R, and let f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y) denote a function
defined in the complex plane C, with u and v being real-valued functions which
have continuous partial derivatives of all orders.
State the Cauchy Riemann equations for an analytic function in terms of partial
derivatives of u and v with respect to x and y.
(b) Let z = x + iy with x, y ∈ R. For each of the following functions, determine
whether or not it is analytic in the complex plane, giving reasons for your answers
in each case.
i.
f1 (z) = y.
ii.
f2 (z) = (−x − 4xy) + i(2x2 − 2y 2 − y).
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 27

iii.
f3 (z) = ex (x cos(y) − y sin(y)) + iex (x sin(y) + y cos(y)).
iv.
∂φ ∂φ
f4 (z) = +i
∂x ∂y
where φ(x, y) is a harmonic function and the first partial derivatives are not
constant.
(c) Let u(x, y) = cosh(x) cos(y). Show that u is harmonic and determine the harmonic
conjugate v(x, y) satisfying v(0, 0) = 0.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 28

Solution

(a) The Cauchy Riemann equations are

∂u ∂v ∂u ∂v
= , =− .
∂x ∂y ∂y ∂x

(b) i. With u = y and v = 0 we get

∂u ∂v
= 1 and = 0.
∂y ∂x
The Cauchy Riemann equations are not satisfied and hence f1 is not analytic.
ii. Let
u = −x − 4xy and v = 2x2 − 2y 2 − y.
∂u ∂v
= −1 − 4y =
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v
= −4x, = 4x.
∂y ∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and hence f2 is analytic.
iii. Let
u = ex (x cos(y) − y sin(y)) and v = ex (x sin(y) + y cos(y)).

∂u
= ex cos(y) + ex (x cos(y) − y sin(y)),
∂x
∂v
= ex (x cos(y) + cos(y) − y sin(y)),
∂y
∂u
= ex (−x sin(y) − sin(y) − y cos(y)),
∂y
∂v
= ex sin(y) + ex (x sin(y) + y cos(y)).
∂x
Both Cauchy Riemann equations are satisfied and hence f3 is analytic.
iv. Let
∂φ ∂φ
u= and v = .
∂x ∂y
∂u ∂v ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
− = − 2 = 2 2 = −2 2
∂x ∂y ∂x2 ∂y ∂x ∂y
as φ is harmonic.

∂u ∂v ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ ∂ 2φ
+ = + =2
∂y ∂x ∂y∂x ∂x∂y ∂x∂y
as mixed partial derivatives can be done in any order. If both right hand sides
are 0 then the first partial derivatives of φ are constant. As we are told that
this is not the case the Cauchy Riemann equations are not satisfied and hence
f4 is not analytic.
2024:11:13:12:50:29 © M. K. Warby MA3614 Complex variable methods and applications 29

(c) The partial derivatives of u are

∂u ∂u ∂ 2u ∂ 2u
= sinh(x) cos(y), = − cosh(x) sin(y), = u, = −u.
∂x ∂y ∂x2 ∂y 2
Hence u is harmonic.
The harmonic conjugate v is related to u by the Cauchy Riemann equations.
∂v ∂u
=− = cosh(x) sin(y).
∂x ∂y
Partially integrating with respect to x gives

v = sinh(x) sin(y) + g(y)

for any function g(y).

∂v ∂u
= sinh(x) cos(y) + g 0 (y) =
∂y ∂x

which implies that g 0 (y) = 0 and g(y) = C where C is a constant. v(0, 0) = C = 0.

Thus
v = sinh(x) sin(y).