Part IB

—
Complex Analysis
—
Year
2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
2017
2016
2015
2014
2013
2012
2011
2010
2009
2008
2007
2006
2005
 2024
6
Paper 1, Section I
3B Complex Analysis OR Complex Methods
Let f (z) = cosh πz. Show that z 7→ ζ = f (z) defines a mapping that is conformal
from the complex z-plane to the complex ζ-plane, except at certain critical points which
you should identify. Find the image in the ζ-plane of the strip

S = {x + iy : 0 < x < ∞, 0 < y < 1},

identifying clearly the image of each of the three line segments

L1 = {x + iy : 0 < x < ∞, y = 0} , L2 = {x + iy : x = 0, 0 < y < 1}

and
L3 = {x + iy : 0 < x < ∞, y = 1} .

Paper 1, Section II
12F Complex Analysis OR Complex Methods

(a) Define what it means for a holomorphic function on a domain U \ {a} to have (i) a
removable singularity, (ii) a pole of order k, (iii) an essential singularity at z = a.

(b) Let f be holomorphic on the punctured unit disc D∗ = D \ {0} such that for all
0 < r < 1, Z 2π
|f (reiθ )|2 dθ ⩽ 1.
0
Show that f has a removable singularity at z = 0.

(c) Let h(z) = tan z.

(i) Classify the singularities of h(z) in C.
2
(ii) Find the first two terms of the Laurent expansion of h(1/z) around zk = (2k+1)π ,
k ∈ Z.
(iii) Classify the singularities of exp(h(1/z)) in C.

Paper 2, Section II
12B Complex Analysis OR Complex Methods
By considering the integral of an appropriate function on a semi-circular contour in
the upper half plane, or otherwise, compute
Z ∞
(ln x)4
dx .
0 1 + x2

Z ∞
(ln x)2 π3
[Hint: You may use that dx = .]
0 1 + x2 8

Part IB, Paper 1

 2024
5
Paper 4, Section I
3F Complex Analysis
Define what it means for f : U → C to be holomorphic on a domain U .
State Morera’s theorem.
Deduce that the function f defined on C by
Z 1 tz
e
f (z) = 2
dt
0 1+t

is holomorphic.
Give an example to show that a holomorphic function need not possess an anti-
derivative on its domain.
[Any further results you use should be stated clearly.]

Paper 3, Section II
13F Complex Analysis
Define the winding number of a closed curve γ : [a, b] → C about a point w ∈ C
which is not in the image of γ. [You do not need to justify its existence.]
State the argument principle on a domain U bounded by a closed curve γ.
Deduce Rouché’s theorem, which you should state carefully.
Let f be non-constant and holomorphic on an open set containing the closed unit
disc D. Suppose that |f (z)| ⩾ 1 for all z satisfying |z| = 1, and that there exists z0 in the
unit disc D such that |f (z0 )| < 1. Show that the image of f contains D.
Let g be holomorphic and non-zero on the punctured unit disc D∗ = D \ {0} such
that g ′ /g
has a simple pole at 0. Show that there exists a non-zero integer k such that
h /h has a removable singularity at 0, where h is defined by h(z) = z −k g(z).
′

Part IB, Paper 1 [TURN OVER]

 2023
6

Paper 1, Section I
3B Complex Analysis OR Complex Methods
(a) What is the Laurent series of e1/z about z0 = 0?
(b) Let ρ > 0. Show that for all large enough n ∈ N, all zeros of the function
1 1 1
fn (z) = 1 + + 2
+ ... +
z 2!z n!z n
lie in the open disc {z : |z| < ρ}.

Paper 1, Section II
12G Complex Analysis P∞ OR Complex Methods
(1−z)n
(a) Let f (z) = − n=1 n for |z − 1| < 1. By differentiating z exp(−f (z)), show
that f is an analytic branch of logarithm on the disc D(1, 1) with f (1) = 0. Use scaling
and the function f to show that for every point a in the domain D = C \ {x ∈ R : x > 0},
there is an analytic branch of logarithm on a small neighbourhood of a whose imaginary
part lies in (0, 2π).
(b) For z ∈ D, let θ(z) be the unique value of the argument of z in the interval
(0, 2π). Define the function L : D → C by L(z) = log|z| + iθ(z). Briefly explain using
part (a) why L is an analytic branch of logarithm on D. For α ∈ (−1, 1) write down an
analytic branch of z α on D.
(c) State the residue theorem. Evaluate the integral
Z ∞
xα
I= dx
0 (x + 1)2

where α ∈ (−1, 1).

Paper 2, Section II
12B Complex Analysis OR Complex Methods
(a) Suppose that f : C → C is analytic, and is bounded in the half-plane
{z : Re(z) > 0}. Prove that, for any real number c > 0, there is a positive real constant
M such that
|f (z1 ) − f (z2 )| 6 M |z1 − z2 |
whenever z1 , z2 ∈ C satisfy Re(z1 ) > c, Re(z2 ) > c, and |z1 − z2 | < c.
(b) Let the functions g, h : C → C both be analytic.

(i) State Liouville’s Theorem.

(ii) Show that if g is not constant, then g(C) is dense in C.

(iii) Show that if |h(z)| 6 |Re(z)|−1/2 for all z ∈ C, then h is constant.

Part IB, Paper 1

 2023
5

Paper 4, Section I
3G Complex Analysis
Define what it means for two domains in C to be conformally equivalent.
For each of the following pairs of domains, determine whether they are conformally
equivalent. Justify your answers.

(i) C \ {0} and {z ∈ C : 0 < |z| < 1};

(ii) C and {z ∈ C : Im(z) > 0};

(iii) {z ∈ C : Im(z) > 0, |z| < 1} and {z ∈ C : Im(z) > 0}.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
State Rouché’s theorem. State the open mapping theorem and prove it using
Rouché’s theorem. Show that if f is a non-constant holomorphic function on a domain Ω,
then |f | has no local maximum on Ω.
Let Ω be a bounded domain in C, and let Ω denote the closure of Ω. Let f : Ω → C
be a continuous function that is holomorphic on Ω. Show that if |f (z)| 6 M for all z ∈ ∂Ω,
then |f (z)| 6 M for all z ∈ Ω, where ∂Ω = Ω \ Ω is the boundary of Ω.
Consider the unbounded domain Ω = {z ∈ C : Re z > 1}. Let f : Ω → C be a
continuous function that is holomorphic on Ω. Assume that f is bounded both on Ω and
on its boundary ∂Ω. Show that if |f (z)| 6 M for all z ∈ ∂Ω, then |f (z)| 6 M for all z
∈ Ω.
n
[Hint: Consider for large n ∈ N and for a large disc D(0, R) the function z 7→ f (z) /z
on D(0, R)∩Ω.] Is the boundedness assumption of f on Ω necessary? Justify your answer.

Part IB, Paper 1 [TURN OVER]

 2022
6

Paper 1, Section I
3G Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Show that f (z) = sinz z has a removable singularity at z = 0. Find the radius of
convergence of the power series of f at the origin.

Paper 1, Section II
12G Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Let Ω ⊂ C be an open set such that there is z0 ∈ Ω with the property that for
any z ∈ Ω, the line segment [z0 , z] connecting z0 to z is completely contained in Ω. Let
f : Ω → C be a continuous function such that
Z
f (z) dz = 0
Γ

for any closed curve Γ which is the boundary of a triangle contained in Ω. Given w ∈ Ω,
let Z
g(w) = f (z) dz.
[z0 ,w]

Explain briefly why g is a holomorphic function such that g 0 (w) = f (w) for all w ∈ Ω.
(b) Fix z0 ∈ C with z0 6= 0 and let D ⊂ C be the set of points z ∈ C such that the
line segment connecting z to z0 does not pass through the origin. Show that there exists
a holomorphic function h : D → C such that h(z)2 = z for all z ∈ D. [You may assume
that the integral of 1/z over the boundary of any triangle contained in D is zero.]
(c) Show that there exists a holomorphic function f defined in a neighbourhood U
of the origin such that f (z)2 = cos z for all z ∈ U . Is it possible to find a holomorphic
function f defined on the disk |z| < 2 such that f (z)2 = cos z for all z in the disk? Justify
your answer.

Paper 2, Section II
12A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Let R = P/Q be a rational function, where deg Q > deg P + 2, and Q has no
real zeros. Using the calculus of residues, write a general expression for
Z ∞
R(x)eix dx
−∞

in terms of residues. Briefly justify your answer.

[You may assume that the polynomials P and Q do not have any common factors.]
(b) Explicitly evaluate the integral
Z ∞
x sin x
dx .
−∞ 1 + x4

Part IB, Paper 1

 2022
5

Paper 4, Section I
3G Complex Analysis
Show that there is no bijective holomorphic map f : D(0, 1) \ {0} → A, where
D(0, 1) is the disc {z ∈ C : |z| < 1} and A is the annulus {z ∈ C : 1 < |z| < 2}.
[Hint: Consider an extension of f to the whole disc.]

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
Let U ⊂ C be a (non-empty) connected open set and let fn be a sequence of
holomorphic functions defined on U . Suppose that fn converges uniformly to a function
f on every compact subset of U . Show that f is holomorphic in U . Furthermore, show
that fn0 converges uniformly to f 0 on every compact subset of U .
Suppose in addition that f is not identically zero and that for each n, there is a
unique cn ∈ U such that fn (cn ) = 0. Show that there is at most one c ∈ U such that
f (c) = 0. Find an example such that f has no zeros in U . Give a necessary and sufficient
condition on the cn for this to happen in general.

Part IB, Paper 1 [TURN OVER]

 2021
7

Paper 1, Section I
3B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let x > 0, x 6= 2, and let Cx denote the positively oriented circle of radius x centred
at the origin. Define I
z 2 + ez
g(x) = 2
dz.
Cx z (z − 2)

Evaluate g(x) for x ∈ (0, ∞) \ {2}.

Paper 1, Section II
12G Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) State a theorem establishing Laurent series of analytic functions on suitable
domains. Give a formula for the nth Laurent coefficient.
Define the notion of isolated singularity. State the classification of an isolated
singularity in terms of Laurent coefficients.
Compute the Laurent series of
1
f (z) =
z(z − 1)

on the annuli A1 = {z : 0 < |z| < 1} and A2 = {z : 1 < |z|}. Using this example,
comment on the statement that Laurent coefficients are unique. Classify the singularity
of f at 0.
(b) Let U be an open subset of the complex plane, let a ∈ U and let U 0 = U \ {a}.
Assume that f is an analytic function on U 0 with |f (z)| → ∞ as z → a. By considering
1
the Laurent series of g(z) = f (z) at a, classify the singularity of f at a in terms of the
Laurent coefficients. [You may assume that a continuous function on U that is analytic
on U 0 is analytic on U .]
Now let f : C → C be an entire function
with |f (z)| → ∞ as z → ∞. By considering
Laurent series at 0 of f (z) and of h(z) = f z1 , show that f is a polynomial.
(c) Classify, giving reasons, the singularity at the origin of each of the following
functions and in each case compute the residue:

exp(z) − 1
g(z) = and h(z) = sin(z) sin(1/z) .
z log(z + 1)

Part IB, 2021 List of Questions [TURN OVER]

 2021
8

Paper 2, Section II
12B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

(a) Let f : C → C be an entire function and let a > 0, b > 0 be constants. Show that if

|f (z)| 6 a|z|n/2 + b

for all z ∈ C, where n is a positive odd integer, then f must be a polynomial with
degree not exceeding bn/2c (closest integer part rounding down).
p
Does there exist a function f , analytic in C \ {0}, such that |f (z)| > 1/ |z| for all
nonzero z? Justify your answer.

(b) State Liouville’s Theorem and use it to show the following.

(i) If u is a positive harmonic function on R2 , then u is a constant function.

(ii) Let L = {z | z = ax + b, x ∈ R} be a line in C where a, b ∈ C, a 6= 0. If
f : C → C is an entire function such that f (C) ∩ L = ∅, then f is a constant
function.

Part IB, 2021 List of Questions

 2021
6

Paper 4, Section I
3G Complex Analysis
Let f be a holomorphic function on a neighbourhood of a ∈ C. Assume that f has
a zero of order k at a with k > 1. Show that there exist ε > 0 and δ > 0 such that for any
b with 0 < |b| < ε there are exactly k distinct values of z ∈ D(a, δ) with f (z) = b.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
Let γ be a curve (not necessarily closed) in C and let [γ] denote the image of γ. Let
φ : [γ] → C be a continuous function and define
Z
φ(λ)
f (z) = dλ
γ λ−z

for z ∈ C \ [γ]. Show that f has a power series expansion about every a ∈
/ [γ].
Using Cauchy’s Integral Formula, show that a holomorphic function has complex
derivatives of all orders. [Properties of power series may be assumed without proof.] Let f
be a holomorphic function on an open set U that contains the closed disc D(a, r). Obtain
an integral formula for the derivative of f on the open disc D(a, r) in terms of the values
of f on the boundary of the disc.
Show that if holomorphic functions fn on an open set U converge locally uniformly
to a holomorphic function f on U , then fn0 converges locally uniformly to f 0 .
Let D1 and D2 be two overlapping closed discs. Let f be a holomorphic function on
some open neighbourhood of D = D1 ∩ D2 . Show that there exist open neighbourhoods
Uj of Dj and holomorphic functions fj on Uj , j = 1, 2, such that f (z) = f1 (z) + f2 (z) on
U1 ∩ U2 .

Part IB, 2021 List of Questions

 2020
4

Paper 1, Section I
3G Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let D be the open disc with centre e2πi/6 and radius 1, and let L be the open
lower half plane. Starting with a suitable Möbius map, find a conformal equivalence (or
conformal bijection) of D ∩ L onto the open unit disc.

Paper 1, Section II
12G Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let `(z) be an analytic branch of log z on a domain D ⊂ C \ {0}. Write down an
analytic branch of z 1/2 on D. Show that if ψ1 (z) and ψ2 (z) are two analytic branches of
z 1/2 on D, then either ψ1 (z) = ψ2 (z) for all z ∈ D or ψ1 (z) = −ψ2 (z) for all z ∈ D.
Describe the principal value or branch σ1 (z) of z 1/2 on D1 = C \ {x ∈ R : x 6 0}.
Describe a branch σ2 (z) of z 1/2 on D2 = C \ {x ∈ R : x > 0}.
√
Construct
√ an analytic branch ϕ(z) of 1 − z 2 on C \ {x ∈ R : −1 6 x 6 1} with
ϕ(2i) = 5. [If you choose to use σ1 and σ2 in your construction, then you may assume
without proof that they are analytic.]
Show that for 0 < |z| < 1 we have ϕ(1/z) = −iσ1 (1 − z 2 )/z. Hence find the first
three terms of the Laurent series of ϕ(1/z) about 0.
Set f (z) = ϕ(z)/(1 + z 2 ) for |z| > 1 and g(z) = f (1/z)/z 2 for 0 < |z| < 1. Compute
the residue of g at 0 and use it to compute the integral
Z
f (z) dz .
|z|=2

Paper 2, Section II
12B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
For the function
1
f (z) = ,
z(z − 2)
find the Laurent expansions

(i) about z = 0 in the annulus 0 < |z| < 2 ,

(ii) about z = 0 in the annulus 2 < |z| < ∞ ,

(iii) about z = 1 in the annulus 0 < |z − 1| < 1 .

What is the nature of the singularity of f , if any, at z = 0, z = ∞ and z = 1?

Using an integral of f , or otherwise, evaluate
Z 2π
2 − cos θ
dθ .
0 5 − 4 cos θ

Part IB, 2020 List of Questions

 2019
7

Paper 1, Section I
2F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
What is the Laurent series for a function f defined in an annulus A? Find the
10
Laurent series for f (z) = (z+2)(z 2 +1) on the annuli

A1 = {z ∈ C | 0 < |z| < 1} and

A2 = {z ∈ C | 1 < |z| < 2} .

Paper 1, Section II
13F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
State and prove Jordan’s lemma.
g(z)
What is the residue of a function f at an isolated singularity a? If f (z) = (z−a) k

with k a positive integer, g analytic, and g(a) 6= 0, derive a formula for the residue of f
at a in terms of derivatives of g.
Evaluate Z ∞
x3 sin x
dx .
−∞ (1 + x2 )2

Paper 2, Section II
13D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let C1 and C2 be smooth curves in the complex plane, intersecting at some point
p. Show that if the map f : C → C is complex differentiable, then it preserves the angle
between C1 and C2 at p, provided f ′ (p) 6= 0. Give an example that illustrates why the
condition f ′ (p) 6= 0 is important.
Show that f (z) = z + 1/z is a one-to-one conformal map on each of the two regions
|z| > 1 and 0 < |z| < 1, and find the image of each region.
Hence construct a one-to-one conformal map from the unit disc to the complex plane
with the intervals (−∞, −1/2] and [1/2, ∞) removed.

Part IB, 2019 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2019
6

Paper 4, Section I
4F Complex Analysis
State the Cauchy Integral Formula for a disc. If f : D(z0 ; r) → C is a holomorphic
function such that |f (z)| 6 |f (z0 )| for all z ∈ D(z0 ; r), show using the Cauchy Integral
Formula that f is constant.

Paper 3, Section II
13F Complex Analysis
Define the winding number n(γ, w) of a closed path γ : [a, b] → C around a point
w ∈ C which does not lie on the image of γ. [You do not need to justify its existence.]
If f is a meromorphic function, define the order of a zero z0 of f and of a pole w0
of f . State the Argument Principle, and explain how it can be deduced from the Residue
Theorem.
How many roots of the polynomial

z 4 + 10z 3 + 4z 2 + 10z + 5

lie in the right-hand half plane?

Part IB, 2019 List of Questions

 2018
7

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

(a) Show that

w = log(z)
is a conformal mapping from the right half z-plane, Re(z) > 0, to the strip
n π πo
S = w : − < Im(w) < ,
2 2
for a suitably chosen branch of log(z) that you should specify.

(b) Show that

z−1
w=
z+1
is a conformal mapping from the right half z-plane, Re(z) > 0, to the unit disc

D = {w : |w| < 1}.

(c) Deduce a conformal mapping from the strip S to the disc D.

Part IB, 2018 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2018
8

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

(a) Let C be a rectangular contour with vertices at ±R + π i and ±R − π i for some

R > 0 taken in the anticlockwise direction. By considering
I 2
eiz /4π
lim dz,
R→∞ C ez/2 − e−z/2
show that Z R
2 /4π
lim eix dx = 2πeπi/4 .
R→∞ −R

(b) By using a semi-circular contour in the upper half plane, calculate

Z ∞
x sin(πx)
dx
0 x 2 + a2

for a > 0.
[You may use Jordan’s Lemma without proof.]

Part IB, 2018 List of Questions

 2018
9

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Let f (z) be a complex function. Define the Laurent series of f (z) about z = z0 ,
and give suitable formulae in terms of integrals for calculating the coefficients of the
series.

(b) Calculate, by any means, the first 3 terms in the Laurent series about z = 0 for
1
f (z) = .
e2z −1

Indicate the range of values of |z| for which your series is valid.

(c) Let
X m
1 z
g(z) = + .
2z z + π2 k2
2
k=1

Classify the singularities of F (z) = f (z) − g(z) for |z| < (m + 1)π.

(d) By considering I
F (z)
dz
CR z2
where CR = {|z| = R} for some suitably chosen R > 0, show that
∞
X 1 π2
= .
k2 6
k=1

Part IB, 2018 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2018
6

Paper 4, Section I
4F Complex Analysis
(a) Let Ω ⊂ C be open, a ∈ Ω and suppose that Dρ (a) = {z ∈ C : |z − a| 6 ρ} ⊂ Ω.
Let f : Ω → C be analytic.
State the Cauchy integral formula expressing f (a) as a contour integral over
C = ∂Dρ (a). Give, without proof, a similar expression for f ′ (a).
If additionally Ω = C and f is bounded, deduce that f must be constant.

(b) If g = u + iv : C → C is analytic where u, v are real, and if u2 (z) − u(z) > v 2 (z)
for all z ∈ C, show that g is constant.

Paper 3, Section II
13F Complex Analysis
Let D = {z ∈ C : |z| < 1} and let f : D → C be analytic.
(a) If there is a point a ∈ D such that |f (z)| 6 |f (a)| for all z ∈ D, prove that f is
constant.

(b) If f (0) = 0 and |f (z)| 6 1 for all z ∈ D, prove that |f (z)| 6 |z| for all z ∈ D.

(c) Show that there is a constant C independent of f such that if f (0) = 1 and
f (z) 6∈ (−∞, 0] for all z ∈ D then |f (z)| 6 C whenever |z| 6 1/2.
[Hint: you may find it useful to consider the principal branch of the map z 7→ z 1/2 .]

(d) Does the conclusion in (c) hold if we replace the hypothesis f (z) 6∈ (−∞, 0] for
z ∈ D with the hypothesis f (z) 6= 0 for z ∈ D, and keep all other hypotheses?
Justify your answer.

Part IB, 2018 List of Questions

 2017
7

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let F (z) = u(x, y)+i v(x, y) where z = x+i y. Suppose F (z) is an analytic function
of z in a domain D of the complex plane.
Derive the Cauchy-Riemann equations satisfied by u and v.
x
For u = 2 find a suitable function v and domain D such that F = u + i v is
x + y2
analytic in D.

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
State the residue theorem.
By considering
I
z 1/2 log z
dz
C 1 + z2
with C a suitably chosen contour in the upper half plane or otherwise, evaluate the real
integrals
Z ∞
x1/2 log x
dx
0 1 + x2

and
Z ∞
x1/2
dx
0 1 + x2

where x1/2 is taken to be the positive square root.

Part IB, 2017 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2017
8

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Let f (z) be defined on the complex plane such that zf (z) → 0 as |z| → ∞ and
f (z) is analytic on an open set containing Im(z) > −c, where c is a positive real constant.
Let C1 be the horizontal contour running from −∞ − ic to +∞ − ic and let
Z
1 f (z)
F (λ) = dz.
2πi C1 z − λ

By evaluating the integral, show that F (λ) is analytic for Im(λ) > −c.
(b) Let g(z) be defined on the complex plane such that z g(z) → 0 as |z| → ∞ with
Im(z) > −c. Suppose g(z) is analytic at all points except z = α+ and z = α− which are
simple poles with Im(α+ ) > c and Im(α− ) < −c.
Let C2 be the horizontal contour running from −∞ + ic to +∞ + ic, and let
Z
1 g(z)
H(λ) = dz,
2πi C1 z − λ
Z
1 g(z)
J(λ) = − dz.
2πi C2 z − λ

(i) Show that H(λ) is analytic for Im(λ) > −c.

(ii) Show that J(λ) is analytic for Im(λ) < c.

(iii) Show that if −c < Im(λ) < c then H(λ) + J(λ) = g(λ).

[You should be careful to make sure you consider all points in the required regions.]

Part IB, 2017 List of Questions

 2017
6

Paper 4, Section I
4F Complex Analysis
Let D be a star-domain, and let f be a continuous complex-valued function on D.
Suppose that for every triangle T contained in D we have
Z
f (z) dz = 0 .
∂T

Show that f has an antiderivative on D.

If we assume instead that D is a domain (not necessarily a star-domain), does this
conclusion still hold? Briefly justify your answer.

Paper 3, Section II
13F Complex Analysis
Let f be an entire function. Prove P∞ Taylor’s theorem, that there exist complex
numbers c0 , c1 , . . . such that f (z) = c z n for all z. [You may assume Cauchy’s
n=0 n
Integral Formula.]
For a positive real r, let Mr = sup{|f (z)| : |z| = r}. Explain why we have

Mr
|cn | 6
rn
for all n.
Mr
Now let n and r be fixed. For which entire functions f do we have |cn | = ?
rn

Part IB, 2017 List of Questions

 2016
8

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Classify the singularities of the following functions at both z = 0 and at the point
at infinity on the extended complex plane:
ez
f1 (z) = ,
z sin2 z
1
f2 (z) = 2
,
z (1 − cos z)
f3 (z) = z 2 sin(1/z).

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let a = N + 1/2 for a positive integer N . Let CN be the anticlockwise contour
defined by the square with its four vertices at a ± ia and −a ± ia. Let
I
dz
IN = 2
.
CN z sin(πz)

Show that 1/ sin(πz) is uniformly bounded on the contours CN as N → ∞, and hence

that IN → 0 as N → ∞.
Using this result, establish that
∞
X (−1)n−1 π2
= .
n=1
n2 12

Part IB, 2016 List of Questions

 2016
9

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let w = u + iv and let z = x + iy, for u, v, x, y real.
√
(a) Let A be the map defined by w = z, using the principal branch. Show that
A maps the region to the left of the parabola y 2 = 4(1 − x) on the z−plane, with the
negative real axis x ∈ (−∞, 0] removed, into the vertical strip of the w−plane between
the lines u = 0 and u = 1.
(b) Let B be the map defined by w = tan2 (z/2). Show that B maps the vertical
strip of the z−plane between the lines x = 0 and x = π/2 into the region inside the unit
circle on the w−plane, with the part u ∈ (−1, 0] of the negative real axis removed.
(c) Using the results of parts (a) and (b), show that the map C, defined by
√
w = tan2 (π z/4), maps the region to the left of the parabola y 2 = 4(1 − x) on the
z−plane, including the negative real axis, onto the unit disc on the w−plane.

Part IB, 2016 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2016
7

Paper 4, Section I
4G Complex Analysis
State carefully Rouché’s theorem. Use it to show that the function z 4 + 3 + eiz has
exactly one zero z = z0 in the quadrant

{z ∈ C | 0 < arg(z) < π/2} ,

√
and that |z0 | 6 2.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
(a) Prove Cauchy’s theorem for a triangle.
(b) Write down an expression for the winding number I(γ, a) of a closed, piecewise
continuously differentiable curve γ about a point a ∈ C which does not lie on γ.
(c) Let U ⊂ C be a domain, and f : U → C a holomorphic function with no zeroes in
U . Suppose that for infinitely many positive integers k the function f has a holomorphic
k-th root. Show that there exists a holomorphic function F : U → C such that f = exp F .

Part IB, 2016 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2015

Paper 1, Section I
2B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Consider the analytic (holomorphic) functions f and g on a nonempty domain Ω
where g is nowhere zero. Prove that if |f (z)| = |g(z)| for all z in Ω then there exists a real
constant α such that f (z) = eiα g(z) for all z in Ω.

Paper 2, Section II
13B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(i) A function f (z) has a pole of order m at z = z0 . Derive a general expression for
the residue of f (z) at z = z0 involving f and its derivatives.
(ii) Using contour integration along a contour in the upper half-plane, determine
the value of the integral Z ∞
(ln x)2
I= dx.
0 (1 + x2 )2

Paper 1, Section II
13B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(i) Show that transformations of the complex plane of the form

az + b
ζ= ,
cz + d
always map circles and lines to circles and lines, where a, b, c and d are complex numbers
such that ad − bc 6= 0.
(ii) Show that the transformation
z−α
ζ= , |α| < 1,
ᾱz − 1
maps the unit disk centered at z = 0 onto itself.
(iii) Deduce a conformal transformation that maps the non-concentric annular
domain Ω = {|z| < 1, |z − c| > c}, 0 < c < 1/2, to a concentric annular domain.

Part IB, 2015 List of Questions

 2015

Paper 4, Section I
4G Complex Analysis
Let f be a continuous function defined on a connected open set D ⊂ C. Prove
carefully that the following statements are equivalent.
(i) There exists a holomorphic function F on D such that F ′ (z) = f (z).
R
(ii) γ f (z)dz = 0 holds for every closed curve γ in D.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
State the argument principle.
Let U ⊂ C be an open set and f : U → C a holomorphic injective function. Show
that f ′ (z) 6= 0 for each z in U and that f (U ) is open.
Stating clearly any theorems that you require, show that for each a ∈ U and a
sufficiently small r > 0, Z
1 zf ′ (z)
g(w) = dz
2πi |z−a|=r f (z) − w
defines a holomorphic function on some open disc D about f (a).
Show that g is the inverse for the restriction of f to g(D).

Part IB, 2015 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2014

Paper 1, Section I
2B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let f (z) be an analytic/holomorphic function defined on an open set D, and let
z0 ∈ D be a point such that f ′ (z0 ) 6= 0. Show that the transformation w = f (z) preserves
the angle between smooth curves intersecting at z0 . Find such a transformation w = f (z)
that maps the second quadrant of the unit disc (i.e. |z| < 1, π/2 < arg(z) < π) to the
region in the first quadrant of the complex plane where |w| > 1 (i.e. the region in the first
quadrant outside the unit circle).

Paper 1, Section II
13B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
By choice of a suitable contour show that for a > b > 0
Z 2π
sin2 θdθ 2π h p i
= 2 a − a 2 − b2 .
0 a + b cos θ b

Hence evaluate
Z 1
(1 − x2 )1/2 x2 dx
0 1 + x2

using the substitution x = cos(θ/2).

Paper 2, Section II
13B Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
By considering a rectangular contour, show that for 0 < a < 1 we have
Z ∞
eax π
x
dx = .
−∞ e + 1 sin πa

Hence evaluate
Z ∞
dt
.
0 t5/6 (1 + t)

Part IB, 2014 List of Questions

 2014

Paper 4, Section I
4G Complex Analysis
Let f be an entire function. State Cauchy’s Integral Formula, relating the nth
derivative of f at a point z with the values of f on a circle around z.
State Liouville’s Theorem, and deduce it from Cauchy’s Integral Formula.
Let f be an entire function, and suppose that for some k we have that |f (z)| 6 |z|k
for all z. Prove that f is a polynomial.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
State the Residue Theorem precisely.
Let D be a star-domain, and let γ be a closed path in D. Suppose that f is a
holomorphic function on D, having no zeros on γ. Let N be the number of zeros of f
inside γ, counted with multiplicity (i.e. order of zero and winding number). Show that
Z
1 f ′ (z)
N = dz .
2πi γ f (z)

[The Residue Theorem may be used without proof.]

Now suppose that g is another holomorphic function on D, also having no zeros on
γ and with |g(z)| < |f (z)| on γ. Explain why, for any 0 6 t 6 1, the expression
Z
f ′ (z) + tg ′ (z)
I(t) = dz
γ f (z) + tg(z)

is well-defined. By considering the behaviour of the function I(t) as t varies, deduce

Rouché’s Theorem.
P k
For each n, let pn be the polynomial nk=0 zk! . Show that, as n tends to infinity,
the smallest modulus of the roots of pn also tends to infinity.
[You may assume any results on convergence of power series, provided that they are
stated clearly.]

Part IB, 2014 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2013

Paper 1, Section I
2D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Classify the singularities (in the finite complex plane) of the following functions:
1
(i) ;
(cosh z)2
1
(ii) ;
cos(1/z)
1
(iii) (−π < arg z < π) ;
log z
1
z2 − 1
(iv) (−π < arg z < π) .
sin πz

Paper 1, Section II
13E Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Suppose p(z) is a polynomial of even degree, all of whose roots satisfy |z| < R.
Explain why there is a holomorphic (i.e. analytic) function
p h(z) defined on the region
2
R < |z| < ∞ which satisfies h(z) = p(z). We write h(z) = p(z).
By expanding in a Laurent series or otherwise, evaluate
Z p
z 4 − z dz
C

where C is the circle of radius 2 with the anticlockwise orientation. (Your answer will be
well-defined up to a factor of ±1, depending on which square root you pick.)

Part IB, 2013 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2013

Paper 2, Section II
13D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Let I 2
eiz /π
I= −2z
dz ,
C 1+e
where C is the rectangle with vertices at ±R and ± R + iπ, traversed anti-clockwise.
π(1 + i)
(i) Show that I = √ .
2
(ii) Assuming that the contribution to I from the vertical sides of the rectangle is
negligible in the limit R → ∞, show that
Z ∞
2 π(1 + i)
eix /π dx = √ .
−∞ 2

(iii) Justify briefly the assumption that the contribution to I from the vertical sides
of the rectangle is negligible in the limit R → ∞.

Part IB, 2013 List of Questions

 2013

Paper 4, Section I
4E Complex Analysis
State Rouché’s theorem. How many roots of the polynomial z 8 + 3z 7 + 6z 2 + 1 are
contained in the annulus 1 < |z| < 2?

Paper 3, Section II
13E Complex Analysis
Let D = {z ∈ C | |z| < 1} be the open unit disk, and let C be its boundary (the
unit circle), with the anticlockwise orientation. Suppose φ : C → C is continuous. Stating
clearly any theorems you use, show that
Z
1 φ(z)
gφ (w) = dz
2πi C z − w

is an analytic function of w for w ∈ D.

Now suppose φ is the restriction of a holomorphic function F defined on some
annulus 1 − ǫ < |z| < 1 + ǫ. Show that gφ (w) is the restriction of a holomorphic function
defined on the open disc |w| < 1 + ǫ.
Let fφ : [0, 2π] → C be defined by fφ (θ) = φ(eiθ ). Express the coefficients in the
power series expansion of gφ centered at 0 in terms of fφ .
Let n ∈ Z. What is gφ in the following cases?

1. φ(z) = z n .

2. φ(z) = z n .

3. φ(z) = (Re z)2 .

Part IB, 2013 List of Questions

 2012

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
3π
Find a conformal transformation ζ = ζ(z) that maps the domain D, 0 < arg z < 2 ,
on to the strip 0 < Im(ζ) < 1.
Hence find a bounded harmonic function φ on D subject to the boundary conditions
φ = 0, A on arg z = 0, 3π
2 , respectively, where A is a real constant.

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
By a suitable choice of contour show that, for −1 < α < 1 ,
Z ∞
xα π
2
dx = .
0 1+x 2 cos(απ/2)

Part IB, 2012 List of Questions

 2012

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Using Cauchy’s integral theorem, write down the value of a holomorphic function
f (z) where |z| < 1 in terms of a contour integral around the unit circle, ζ = eiθ .
By considering the point 1/z, or otherwise, show that
Z 2π
1 1 − |z|2
f (z) = f (ζ) dθ .
2π 0 |ζ − z|2

By setting z = reiα , show that for any harmonic function u(r, α),
Z 2π
1 1 − r2
u(r, α) = u(1, θ) dθ
2π 0 1 − 2r cos(α − θ) + r 2

if r < 1.
Assuming that the function v(r, α), which is the conjugate harmonic function to
u(r, α), can be written as
Z 2π
1 r sin(α − θ)
v(r, α) = v(0) + u(1, θ) dθ ,
π 0 1 − 2r cos(α − θ) + r 2

deduce that
Z 2π
1 ζ +z
f (z) = iv(0) + u(1, θ) dθ .
2π 0 ζ −z

[You may use the fact that on the unit circle, ζ = 1/ζ, and hence

ζ z
=− . ]
ζ − 1/z ζ−z

Part IB, 2012 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2012

Paper 4, Section I
4E Complex Analysis
Let h : C → C be a holomorphic function with h(i) 6= h(−i). Does there exist a
h(z)
holomorphic function f defined in |z| < 1 for which f ′ (z) = ? Does there exist a
1 + z2
h(z)
holomorphic function f defined in |z| > 1 for which f ′ (z) = ? Justify your answers.
1 + z2

Paper 3, Section II
13E Complex Analysis
Let D(a, R) denote the disc |z − a| < R and let f : D(a, R) → C be a holomorphic
function. Using Cauchy’s integral formula show that for every r ∈ (0, R)
Z 1
f (a) = f (a + re2πit ) dt .
0

Deduce that if for every z ∈ D(a, R), |f (z)| 6 |f (a)|, then f is constant.
Let f : D(0, 1) → D(0, 1) be holomorphic with f (0) = 0. Show that |f (z)| 6 |z| for
all z ∈ D(0, 1). Moreover, show that if |f (w)| = |w| for some w 6= 0, then there exists λ
with |λ| = 1 such that f (z) = λz for all z ∈ D(0, 1).

Part IB, 2012 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2011

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Derive the Cauchy-Riemann equations satisfied by the real and imaginary parts of
a complex analytic function f (z).
If |f (z)| is constant on |z| < 1, prove that f (z) is constant on |z| < 1.

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(i) Let −1 < α < 0 and let

log(z − α)
f (z) = where − π 6 arg(z − α) < π ,
z
log z
g(z) = where − π 6 arg(z) < π .
z
Here the logarithms take their principal values. Give a sketch to indicate the positions of
the branch cuts implied by the definitions of f (z) and g(z).
(ii) Let h(z) = f (z) − g(z). Explain why h(z) is analytic in the annulus 1 6 |z| 6 R
for any R > 1. Obtain the first three terms of the Laurent expansion for h(z) around
z = 0 in this annulus and hence evaluate
I
h(z)dz .
|z|=2

Part IB, 2011 List of Questions

 2011

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(i) Let C be an anticlockwise contour defined by a square with vertices at z = x + iy
where  
1
|x| = |y| = 2N + π,
2
for large integer N . Let I
π cot z
I= dz.
C (z + πa)4
Assuming that I → 0 as N → ∞, prove that, if a is not an integer, then
∞
X  
1 π4 3
= − 2 .
n=−∞
(n + a)4 3 sin2 (πa) sin2 (πa)

(ii) Deduce the value of

∞
X 1
4.
n=−∞ (n + 12 )

(iii) Briefly justify the assumption that I → 0 as N → ∞.

[Hint: For part (iii) it is sufficient to consider, at most, one vertical side of the
square and one horizontal side and to use a symmetry argument for the remaining sides.]

Part IB, 2011 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2011

Paper 4, Section I
4E Complex Analysis
Let f (z) be an analytic function in an open subset U of the complex plane. Prove
that f has derivatives of all orders at any point z in U . [You may assume Cauchy’s integral
formula provided it is clearly stated.]

Paper 3, Section II
13E Complex Analysis
Let g : C → C be a continuous function such that
Z
g(z) dz = 0
Γ

for any closed curve Γ which is the boundary of a rectangle in C with sides parallel to the
real and imaginary axes. Prove that g is analytic.
Let f : C → C be continuous. Suppose in addition that f is analytic at every point
z ∈ C with non-zero imaginary part. Show that f is analytic at every point in C.
Let H be the upper half-plane of complex numbers z with positive imaginary part
ℑ(z) > 0. Consider a continuous function F : H ∪ R → C such that F is analytic on H
and F (R) ⊂ R. Define f : C → C by

 F (z) if ℑ(z) > 0
f (z) =

F (z) if ℑ(z) 6 0.

Show that f is analytic.

Part IB, 2011 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2010

Paper 1, Section I
2A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Write down the definition of the complex derivative of the function f (z) of a
single complex variable.

(b) Derive the Cauchy-Riemann equations for the real and imaginary parts u(x, y)
and v(x, y) of f (z), where z = x + iy and

f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y).

(c) State necessary and sufficient conditions on u(x, y) and v(x, y) for the function
f (z) to be complex differentiable.

Paper 1, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
Calculate the following real integrals by using contour integration. Justify your
steps carefully.

(a) Z ∞
x sin x
I1 = dx, a > 0,
0 x 2 + a2

(b)
Z ∞
x1/2 log x
I2 = dx.
0 1 + x2

Part IB, 2010 List of Questions

 2010

Paper 2, Section II
13A Complex Analysis or Complex Methods
(a) Prove that a complex differentiable map, f (z), is conformal, i.e. preserves angles,
provided a certain condition holds on the first complex derivative of f (z).
(b) Let D be the region

D := {z ∈ C : |z−1| > 1 and |z−2| < 2}.

Draw the region D . It might help to consider the two sets

C(1) := {z ∈ C : |z − 1| = 1 },
C(2) := {z ∈ C : |z − 2| = 2 }.

(c) For the transformations below identify the images of D.

z−1
Step 1: The first map is f1 (z) = ,
z
Step 2: The second map is the composite f2 f1 where f2 (z) = (z − 12 )i,
Step 3: The third map is the composite f3 f2 f1 where f3 (z) = e2πz .

(d) Write down the inverse map to the composite f3 f2 f1 , explaining any choices of
branch.
[The composite f2 f1 means f2 (f1 (z)).]

Part IB, 2010 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2010

Paper 4, Section I
4G Complex Analysis
State the principle of the argument for meromorphic functions and show how it
follows from the Residue theorem.

Paper 3, Section II
13G Complex Analysis
State Morera’s theorem. Suppose fn (n = 1, 2, . . . ) are analytic functions on a
domain U ⊂ C and that fn tends locally uniformly to f on U . Show that f is analytic on
U . Explain briefly why the derivatives fn′ tend locally uniformly to f ′ .

Suppose now that the fn are nowhere vanishing and f is not identically zero. Let
a be any point of U ; show that there exists a closed disc ∆ ⊂ U with centre a, on which
the convergence of fn and fn′ are both uniform, and where f is nowhere zero on ∆ \ {a}.
By considering Z
1 fn′ (w)
dw
2πi C fn (w)

(where C denotes the boundary of ∆), or otherwise, deduce that f (a) 6= 0 .

Part IB, 2010 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2009

Paper 1, Section I
3D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let f (z) = u(x, y) + iv(x, y), where z = x + iy, be an analytic function of z in

a domain D of the complex plane. Derive the Cauchy–Riemann equations relating the
partial derivatives of u and v.
For u = e−x cos y, find v and hence f (z).

Paper 1, Section II
13D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Consider the real function f (t) of a real variable t defined by the following contour
integral in the complex s-plane:

Z
1 est
f (t) = ds,
2πi Γ (s2 + 1)s1/2
where the contour Γ is the line s = γ + iy, −∞ < y < ∞, for constant γ > 0. By closing
the contour appropriately, show that

Z ∞
1 e−rt dr
f (t) = sin(t − π/4) +
π 0 (r 2 + 1)r 1/2
when t > 0 and is zero when t < 0. You should justify your evaluation of the inversion
integral over all parts of the contour.
By expanding (r 2 + 1)−1 r −1/2 as a power series in r, and assuming that you may
integrate the series term by term, show that the two leading terms, as t → ∞, are
1
f (t) ∼ sin(t − π/4) + + ··· .
(πt)1/2

R∞
[You may assume that 0 x−1/2 e−x dx = π 1/2 .]

Part IB, 2009 List of Questions

 2009

Paper 2, Section II
14D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Show that both the following transformations from the z-plane to the ζ-plane are
conformal, except at certain critical points which should be identified in both planes, and
in each case find a domain in the z-plane that is mapped onto the upper half ζ-plane:

b2
(i) ζ = z + ;
z
πz
(ii) ζ = cosh ,
b

where b is real and positive.

Part IB, 2009 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2009

Paper 4, Section I
4E Complex Analysis
State Rouché’s Theorem. How many complex numbers z are there with |z| 6 1 and
2z = sin z?

Paper 3, Section II
14E Complex Analysis
For each positive real number R write BR = {z ∈ C : |z| 6 R}. If F is holomorphic
on some open set containing BR , we define
Z 2π
1
J(F, R) = log |F (Reiθ )| dθ.
2π 0

1. If F1 , F2 are both holomorphic on some open set containing BR , show that J(F1 F2 , R) =
J(F1 , R) + J(F2 , R).

2. Suppose that F (0) = 1 and that F does not vanish on some open set containing
BR . By showing that there is a holomorphic branch of logarithm of F and then
considering z −1 log F (z), prove that J(F, R) = 0.

3. Suppose that |w| < R. Prove that the function ψW,R (z) = R(z − w)/(R2 − wz) has
modulus 1 on |z| = R and hence that it satisfies J(ψW,R , R) = 0.

Suppose now that F : C → C is holomorphic and not identically zero, and let R be such
that no zeros of F satisfy |z| = R. Briefly explain why there are only finitely many zeros
of F in BR and, assuming these are listed with the correct multiplicity, derive a formula
for J(F, R) in terms of the zeros, R, and F (0).
Suppose that F has a zero at every lattice point (point with integer coordinates)
2
except for (0, 0). Show that there is a constant c > 0 such that |F (zi )| > ec|zi | for a
sequence z1 , z2 , . . . of complex numbers tending to infinity.

Part IB, 2009 List of Questions [TURN OVER

 2008
14

1/I/3C Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Given that f (z) is an analytic function, show that the mapping w = f (z)
(a) preserves angles between smooth curves intersecting at z if f 0 (z) 6= 0;
2
(b) has Jacobian given by |f 0 (z)| .

1/II/13C Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

By a suitable choice of contour show the following:

(a)
Z ∞
x1/n π
dx = ,
0 1 + x2 2 cos(π/2n)
where n > 1,

(b)
Z ∞
x1/2 log x π2
dx = √ .
0 1 + x2 2 2

2/II/14C Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let f (z) = 1/(ez − 1). Find the first three terms in the Laurent expansion for f (z)
valid for 0 < |z| < 2π.
Now let n be a positive integer, and define
n
1 X 2z
f1 (z) = + ,
z r=1 z + 4π 2 r2
2

f2 (z) = f (z) − f1 (z) .

Show that the singularities of f2 in {z : |z| < 2(n + 1)π } are all removable. By
expanding f1 as a Laurent series valid for |z| > 2nπ, and f2 as a Taylor series valid
for |z| < 2(n + 1)π, find the coefficients of z j for −1 ≤ j ≤ 1 in the Laurent series for f
valid for 2nπ < |z| < 2(n + 1)π.
By estimating an appropriate integral around the contour |z| = (2n + 1)π, show
that
X∞
1 π2
= .
r=1
r2 6

Part IB 2008
 2008
15

3/II/14E Complex Analysis

State and prove Rouché’s theorem, and use it to count the number of zeros of
3z 9 + 8z 6 + z 5 + 2z 3 + 1 inside the annulus {z : 1 < |z| < 2}.
Let (pn )∞
n=1 be a sequence of polynomials of degree at most d with the property
that pn (z) converges uniformly on compact subsets of C as n → ∞. Prove that there is
a polynomial p of degree at most d such that pn → p uniformly on compact subsets of C.
[If you use any results about uniform convergence of analytic functions, you should prove
them.]
Suppose that p has d distinct roots z1 , . . . , zd . Using Rouché’s theorem, or
otherwise, show that for each i there is a sequence (zi,n )∞n=1 such that pn (zi,n ) = 0 and
zi,n → zi as n → ∞.

4/I/4E Complex Analysis

Suppose that f and g are two functions which are analytic on the whole complex
plane C. Suppose that there is a sequence of distinct points z1 , z2 , . . . with |zi | 6 1 such
that f (zi ) = g(zi ). Show that f (z) = g(z) for all z ∈ C. [You may assume any results on
Taylor expansions you need, provided they are clearly stated.]
What happens if the assumption that |zi | 6 1 is dropped?

Part IB 2008
 2007
12

1/I/3F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

For the function
2z
f (z) = ,
z2 + 1
determine the Taylor series of f around the point z0 = 1, and give the largest r for which
this series converges in the disc |z − 1| < r.

1/II/13F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

By integrating round the contour CR , which is the boundary of the domain
π
DR = {z = reiθ : 0 < r < R, 0<θ< },
4
evaluate each of the integrals
Z ∞ Z ∞
2
sin x dx, cos x2 dx .
0 0

Z ∞ √
2 π 2 
[You may use the relations e−r dr = and sin t ≥ t for 0 ≤ t ≤ π
2 .
0 2 π

2/II/14F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let Ω be the half-strip in the complex plane,
π π
Ω = {z = x + iy ∈ C : − <x< , y > 0} .
2 2
Find a conformal mapping that maps Ω onto the unit disc.

Part IB 2007
 2007
13

3/II/14H Complex Analysis

Say that a function on the complex plane C is periodic if f (z + 1) = f (z) and
f (z + i) = f (z) for all z. If f is a periodic analytic function, show that f is constant.
If f is a meromorphic periodic function, show that the number of zeros of f in the
square [0, 1) × [0, 1) is equal to the number of poles, both counted with multiplicities.
Define
1 X 1 1

f (z) = 2 + − 2 ,
z w
(z − w)2 w

where the sum runs over all w = a + bi with a and b integers, not both 0. Show that this
series converges to a meromorphic periodic function on the complex plane.

4/I/4H Complex Analysis

State the argument principle.
Show that if f is an analytic function on an open set U ⊂ C which is one-to-one,
then f 0 (z) 6= 0 for all z ∈ U .

Part IB 2007
 2006
13

1/I/3D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let L be the Laplace operator, i.e., L(g) = gxx + gyy . Prove that if f : Ω → C is
analytic in a domain Ω, then


L |f (z)|2 = 4|f 0 (z)|2 , z ∈ Ω.

1/II/13D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

By integrating round the contour involving the real axis and the line Im(z) = 2π,
or otherwise, evaluate Z ∞
eax
x
dx , 0 < a < 1.
−∞ 1 + e

Explain why the given restriction on the value a is necessary.

2/II/14D Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let Ω be the region enclosed between the two circles C1 and C2 , where

C1 = {z ∈ C : |z − i| = 1} , C2 = {z ∈ C : |z − 2i| = 2}.

Find a conformal mapping that maps Ω onto the unit disc.

[Hint: you may find it helpful first to map Ω to a strip in the complex plane. ]

Part IB 2006
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3/II/14H Complex Analysis

Assuming the principle of the argument, prove that any polynomial of degree n has
precisely n zeros in C, counted with multiplicity.
Consider a polynomial p(z) = z 4 + az 3 + bz 2 + cz + d, and let R be a positive real
number such that |a|R3 + |b|R2 + |c|R + |d| < R4 . Define a curve Γ : [0, 1] → C by
(
p(Reπit ) for 0 6 t 6 1
2 ,
Γ(t) =
(2 − 2t)p(iR) + (2t − 1)p(R) for 1
2 6t61.

Show that the winding number n(Γ, 0) = 1.

Suppose now that p(z) has real coefficients, that z 4 − bz 2 + d has no real zeros, and
that the real zeros of p(z) are all strictly negative. Show that precisely one of the zeros of
p(z) lies in the quadrant {x + iy : x > 0, y > 0}.
[Standard results about winding numbers may be quoted without proof; in particular,
you may wish to use the fact that if γi : [0, 1] → C, i = 1, 2, are two closed curves with
|γ2 (t) − γ1 (t)| < |γ1 (t)| for all t, then n(γ1 , 0) = n(γ2 , 0).]

4/I/4H Complex Analysis

State the principle of isolated zeros for an analytic function on a domain in C.
Suppose f is an analytic function on C \ {0}, which is real-valued at the points
1/n, for n = 1, 2, . . ., and does not have an essential singularity at the origin. Prove that
f (z) = f (z̄) for all z ∈ C \ {0}.

Part IB 2006
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1/I/3F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

State the Cauchy integral formula.
Using the Cauchy integral formula, evaluate
Z
z3
dz.
|z|=2 z2+1

1/II/13F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Determine a conformal mapping from Ω0 = C \ [−1, 1] to the complex unit disc
Ω1 = {z ∈ C : |z| < 1}.
[Hint: A standard method is first to map Ω0 to C \ (−∞, 0], then to the complex right
half-plane {z ∈ C : Re z > 0} and, finally, to Ω1 .]

2/II/14F Complex Analysis or Complex Methods

Let F = P/Q be a rational function, where deg Q > deg P + 2 and Q has no real
zeros. Using the calculus of residues, write a general expression for
Z ∞
F (x)eix dx
−∞

in terms of residues and briefly sketch its proof.

Evaluate explicitly the integral
Z ∞
cos x
dx .
−∞ 4 + x4

Part IB 2005
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3/II/14A Complex Analysis

State the Cauchy integral formula, and use it to deduce Liouville’s theorem.
Let f be a meromorphic function on the complex plane such that |f (z)/z n | is
bounded outside some disc (for some fixed integer n). By considering Laurent expansions,
or otherwise, show that f is a rational function in z.

4/I/4A Complex Analysis

Let γ : [0, 1] → C be a closed path, where all paths are assumed to be piecewise
continuously differentiable, and let a be a complex number not in the image of γ. Write
down an expression for the winding number n(γ, a) in terms of a contour integral. From
this characterization of the winding number, prove the following properties:
(a) If γ1 and γ2 are closed paths not passing through zero, and if γ : [0, 1] → C is
defined by γ(t) = γ1 (t)γ2 (t) for all t, then

n(γ, 0) = n(γ1 , 0) + n(γ2 , 0).

(b) If η : [0, 1] → C is a closed path whose image is contained in {Re(z) > 0}, then
n(η, 0) = 0.
(c) If γ1 and γ2 are closed paths and a is a complex number, not in the image of
either path, such that
|γ1 (t) − γ2 (t)| < |γ1 (t) − a|
for all t, then n(γ1 , a) = n(γ2 , a).
[You may wish here to consider the path defined by η(t) = 1 − (γ1 (t) − γ2 (t))/(γ1 (t) − a).]

Part IB 2005