Unpacking Rouché’s Theorem

Abstract

Rouché’s Theorem is a standard topic in undergraduate complex analysis. It is usually covered near the end of the course with applications relating to pure mathematics only (e.g., using it to produce an alternate proof of the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra). The winding number provides a geometric interpretation relating to the conclusion of Rouché’s Theorem, but most undergraduate texts give no geometric insights that lead to an understanding of why Rouché’s Theorem holds. In addition, most texts do not inform students that a stronger version of the theorem exists. In this paper we present a simplified proof of the stronger version, which is a suitable topic for students to pursue as a short project, and provide a geometric argument for the weaker version. Finally, as a project for advanced students, we unpack a standard application of this theorem as used in control systems: the Nyquist stability criterion.