Zero distribution and division results for exponential polynomials

Abstract

An exponential polynomial of order q is an entire function of the form

$$g(z) = {P_1}(z){e^{{Q_1}(z)}} + ...{P_k}(z){e^{{Q_k}(z)}},$$

where the coefficients P_j(z),Q_j(z) are polynomials in z such that

$$\max \{ deg({Q_j})\} = q.$$

It is known that the majority of the zeros of a given exponential polynomial are in domains surrounding finitely many critical rays. The shape of these domains is refined by showing that in many cases the domains can approach the critical rays asymptotically. Further, it is known that the zeros of an exponential polynomial are always of bounded multiplicity. A new sufficient condition for the majority of zeros to be simple is found. Finally, a division result for a quotient of two exponential polynomials is proved, generalizing a 1929 result by Ritt in the case q = 1 with constant coefficients. Ritt’s result is closely related to Shapiro’s conjecture that has remained open since 1958.