Algebra help with complex numbers

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation involving complex numbers and exponential decay, specifically the equation $$\cos(\omega t) = 1 - e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})$$ where the goal is to solve for the variable t while treating R, C, and ω as constants.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the transformation of the cosine function into complex notation and the subsequent rearrangement of the equation. There is a mention of the challenges faced in progressing from this point, with one participant questioning the validity of the transformation used.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring various interpretations of the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the potential need for numerical solutions if specific values for the constants are known, while others express skepticism about the existence of a closed-form solution.

Contextual Notes

There is an acknowledgment of the need for numerical values for R, C, and ω to proceed with a solution, indicating that the problem may not be solvable in a general form without additional information.

iScience
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Homework Statement



goal: solve for t; all else are constants

$$cos(\omega t)=1-e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})}$$

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



i turned the cos to complex notation & rearranged

$$e^{i\omega t}+e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})}=1$$

$$ln(e^{i\omega t}+e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})})=0$$

and i am stuck..
 
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iScience said:

Homework Statement



goal: solve for t; all else are constants

$$cos(\omega t)=1-e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})}$$
If you know values for ##R,~C,~\omega## you can solve it numerically. Otherwise you are out of luck.
 
iScience said:

Homework Statement



goal: solve for t; all else are constants

$$cos(\omega t)=1-e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})}$$

Homework Equations



none

The Attempt at a Solution



i turned the cos to complex notation & rearranged

$$e^{i\omega t}+e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})}=1$$

$$ln(e^{i\omega t}+e^{-(\frac{t}{RC})})=0$$

and i am stuck..

No wonder you are stuck: ##e^{i \omega t} \neq \cos(\omega t)##. Besides that, I doubt very much that your equation possesses a closed-form solution. You will probably need to resort to approximations, or to numerical solutions for known numerical values of your input constants.
 
Just looking at the form of the original equation, how many solutions do you expect and roughly where?
 

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