Adding/subtracting in polar coordinates?

AI Thread Summary
To add or subtract in polar coordinates, it is necessary to convert to rectangular coordinates first, perform the addition or subtraction, and then convert back to polar coordinates. The discussion clarifies that coordinates apply to points, which cannot be directly added or subtracted. If dealing with vectors, one must define the basis vectors, which differ between Cartesian and polar coordinates. The original inquiry was about adding complex numbers in polar form, emphasizing the need for clarity in the type of mathematical operation being performed. Understanding these conversions is essential for accurate calculations in polar coordinates.
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How do you add or subtract in polar coordinates if not given the rectangular coordinates? Thanks.
 
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Convert to rectangular coordinates then add/subtract. Convert back to polar coordinates.
 
Adding and subtracting what? Coordinates apply to points and you don't add or subtract points. If you are talking about vectors, then you will have to establish what you "basis" vectors are. In Cartesian coordinates, you can take the unit vectors in the x y directions as basis vectors. You can't do that in polar coordinates.
 
Thanks. I thought that was the only way to do it. Sorry for not being so clear. I was trying to add complex numbers in the polar form.
 

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