Solving Complex Number Equations with e^{\frac{1}{2} i n x}

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the equation e^{\frac{1}{2} i n x} = \sin{ \frac{1}{2} n x}, where n is a positive integer and x is an angle. Participants explore the relationship between complex numbers and trigonometric functions, particularly focusing on the implications of a notation that represents the imaginary part of a complex number.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the equation and suggests that a Greek letter might be involved to eliminate imaginary numbers, questioning the use of de Moivre's Theorem.
  • Another participant asserts that the equation does not hold true unless the preceding notation signifies the imaginary part of the complex number.
  • A later reply clarifies that the notation in question is likely the symbol for the imaginary part, Im( ), which is essential for understanding the relationship between the complex exponential and sine functions.
  • One participant confirms the identity e^{inx} = \cos(nx) + i \sin(nx) and states that the imaginary part of this expression is indeed sin(nx).
  • Another participant expresses frustration that the responses did not provide new insights and indicates a plan to consult a professor for further clarification.
  • A later post reveals that the confusing notation was identified as the letter 'I', which represents the imaginary unit, leading to a better understanding of the discussion topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach consensus on the validity of the original equation. There are competing interpretations of the notation and its implications for the relationship between complex numbers and trigonometric functions.

Contextual Notes

The discussion highlights the ambiguity surrounding the notation used to denote the imaginary part of a complex number, which may lead to misunderstandings in interpreting the equation. The participants also express uncertainty regarding the application of de Moivre's Theorem in this context.

JasonRox
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How does...

[tex]e^{\frac{1}{2} i n x} = \sin{ \frac{1}{2} n x}[/tex]

...where n is any positive integer and x is any angle.

I know about de Moivre's Theorem, but that can't be deduced from there.

There is also brackets around it, with some sort of greek letter on the outside. Looks like a vertheta or something. I know this doesn't help much, but I just wanted you to know. The sign is not present after the equal sign.

It would make sense if the sign (greek letter) is used to get rid of imaginary numbers somehow. Also, x would have to be one radian measure so that cos would always be eliminated. Because cos(pi n 1/2) will always be zero.

Maybe it doesn't even use de Moivre's Theorem.

I'm clueless.

Maybe the greek letter represents 1/i and therefore gets rid of the i.

Honestly, it doesn't even say what x is, it is actually that circle with the line across so that should represent any angle.

Can someone help me out here?
 
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It doesn't equal that

I think the sign you can't translat is the Im( ) thing in some fancy germanic script.
 
As it stands, it is completely incorrect, UNLESS the sign prior signifies the IMAGINARY PART of the complex number.
(Remember that a complex number can be described in terms of two REAL numbers, the real part, and the imaginary part of that number).

That's the only clue I can give you..
 
let's see if the tex here has it:

[tex]\mathfrak{I}[/tex]
or

[tex]\Im[/tex]
 
[tex]e^{inx} = \cos(nx) + i \sin(nx)[/tex]

So, it is true that

[tex]\mbox{Im}(e^{inx}) = \sin (nx)[/tex]
 
That was of no help at all. You told me what I already know.

I appreciate your response though.

I was just hoping that maybe I wasn't seeing something. I'll ask my prof, and I hope he's willing to help.
 
matt grime said:
It doesn't equal that

I think the sign you can't translat is the Im( ) thing in some fancy germanic script.

I believe that might be it.

I have never seen that notation and the book never mentionned anything about it.
 
I got it now.

The fancy thing is an I, which you know what it means.

Makes sense a lot of sense now.

Thanks.

Note: It means imaginary part for the readers who are interested in knowing.
 

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