Minimum argument of a complex number

In summary, the minimum value of arg(z) for z satisfying the inequality |z + 3 - 2i| </_ 2 is 113 degrees or 1.97 radians. The argument will be smallest when the tangent line to the circle passes through the origin, forming two congruent triangles that can be used to calculate the minimum argument.
  • #1
Amaru58
4
0

Homework Statement



Find the minimum value of arg(z) where z satisfies the inequality |z + 3 -2i| </_ 2

Homework Equations



Is this working correct? Thank you for help in advance

The Attempt at a Solution



Z lies on a circle with radius 2 and centre -3,2

arg(z)min = pi - 2 tan^-1(2/3)?
= 113 degrees
= 1.97 radians?
 
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  • #2
First note that any argument given by a point inside the circle is also given by a point on the circle so we need only look on the circle for solutions. Then the argument will be smallest when the tangent line to the circle passes through the origin since that will make the angle between the imaginary axis and the point on the circle as small as possible.
 
  • #3
So if we draw two lines: 1) Joining the centre of the circle to the origin and 2) extending a tangent of the circle to the origin as this is where the minimum argument occurs?
Consequently two congruent triangles are formed (if we draw a line down form the centre of the circle perpendicular to the imaginary axis).
We can then find the minimum argument of this complex number as: pi - tan2/3
Therefore the minimum argument is 113 degrees which is 1.97 radians
I'm still not sure what is wrong with my working
 

1. What is the minimum argument of a complex number?

The minimum argument of a complex number is the smallest angle that the vector representation of the complex number makes with the positive real axis in the complex plane. It is also known as the principal argument.

2. How is the minimum argument of a complex number calculated?

The minimum argument of a complex number can be calculated using the arctan function or by dividing the imaginary part by the real part and taking the inverse tangent of the resulting quotient. This value is typically given in radians.

3. What is the range of values for the minimum argument of a complex number?

The range of values for the minimum argument of a complex number is between -π (inclusive) and π (exclusive). This range represents a full rotation around the origin in the complex plane.

4. Can the minimum argument of a complex number be negative?

Yes, the minimum argument of a complex number can be negative. This occurs when the vector representation of the complex number lies in the third or fourth quadrant of the complex plane.

5. Why is the minimum argument of a complex number important?

The minimum argument of a complex number is important in many areas of mathematics and science, including signal processing, electrical engineering, and physics. It allows for the analysis and understanding of complex numbers in the complex plane and their relationship to real-world phenomena.

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