Argument value in complex numbers in polar form.

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around determining the argument of the complex number -1 - √3i in polar form. Participants explore the calculations involved in finding the angle associated with this complex number, considering its position in the complex plane and the implications of different trigonometric values.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculates the hypotenuse and components of the complex number, arriving at angles of -60 degrees and 120 degrees, but questions which angle to use.
  • Another participant points out that the complex number is in the third quadrant, arguing that both -60 and 120 degrees are incorrect, and calculates the angle to be 240 degrees based on the tangent function.
  • A later reply reiterates the third quadrant argument and confirms the angle as 240 degrees, while also challenging the initial participant's conclusion that the argument could be 210 degrees, suggesting that the solution manual is incorrect.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach consensus; there are competing views regarding the correct argument of the complex number, with some asserting 240 degrees and others referencing 210 degrees from the solution manual.

Contextual Notes

Participants express confusion over the use of trigonometric values and the implications of quadrant placement, highlighting potential limitations in the solution manual's guidance.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in complex numbers, polar coordinates, and trigonometric functions may find this discussion relevant.

kayanian
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-1-(under root)3 i
here we find that
r=2(hypotenuse)
a=-1(base)
b=-(under root)3

when i take sin theat= p/h=-(under root)3 / 2
theat from sin is -60

when i take cos theta = b/h =-1 / 2
which gives 120

now one is -60 and other is 120, which is the angel , i have to follow and what do i add it to?
 

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Think about where -1- \sqrt{3}i is on the complex plane. It has negative real part and negative imaginary part so it is in the third quadrant. Neither -60 or 120 degrees is in the third quadrant- they are both wrong.

tan(theta)= -sqrt{3}/-1= sqrt(3) gives theta= 60 degrees but since this number is in the third quadrant, theta= 180+ 60= 240 degrees.

cos(240)= -1/2 and sin(210)= -sqrt(3)/2.
 
HallsofIvy said:
Think about where -1- \sqrt{3}i is on the complex plane. It has negative real part and negative imaginary part so it is in the third quadrant. Neither -60 or 120 degrees is in the third quadrant- they are both wrong.

tan(theta)= -sqrt{3}/-1= sqrt(3) gives theta= 60 degrees but since this number is in the third quadrant, theta= 180+ 60= 240 degrees.

cos(240)= -1/2 and sin(210)= -sqrt(3)/2.

So the answer is :

2{cos 120+ i sin 120)
= 2 cis 120
??

but my solution manual gave me this answer

2 Cis 210
which i myself think is wrong

the table of cos and sin positive value is also used if i m right.and when cos and sin are yielding different results, we go to tangent.ok i get it now but i m lil confused because my solution manual gave wrong answer so please confirm.
 

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2cis210 is incorrect. As HallsofIvy mentioned the correct argument is 240.

--Elucidus
 

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