Complex Conjugation in the Continuous Time

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept of complex conjugation applied to a continuous time signal, specifically questioning its physical correctness and implications in signal processing. Participants explore the nature of the signal and its representation in both continuous and discrete time.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the physical correctness of taking the complex conjugation of a continuous time signal v(t).
  • Another participant seeks clarification on whether v(t) is a complex variable, noting that its discrete time samples are complex.
  • A participant emphasizes that the physical correctness of operations on complex numbers depends on their representation and context.
  • A later reply elaborates that the participant has complex numbers modulated into a continuous sinusoidal signal and inquires about the feasibility of taking the complex conjugation of such a signal in reality.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the physical correctness of complex conjugation in this context, with no consensus reached on the implications or validity of the operation.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not clarify the specific definitions or contexts of the complex numbers involved, nor does it resolve the implications of taking complex conjugation before sampling.

EngWiPy
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Hello all,

I have a continuous time signal v(t), and mathematically I want to take the complex conjugation of it for processing purposes, but I am not sure if this is physically correct. Is it?

Thanks
 
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Is v a complex variable?
 
dauto said:
Is v a complex variable?

Its discrete time samples are, but I want to take the conjugation before sampling. Is it correct physically speaking?
 
All you've told us is that you have some complex numbers. Whether or not any operation on those numbers is "physically correct" will depend on what those numbers represent.
 
DrGreg said:
All you've told us is that you have some complex numbers. Whether or not any operation on those numbers is "physically correct" will depend on what those numbers represent.

I have some complex numbers which are modulated into a continuous sinusoidal signal. Usually, these numbers are recovered by demodulation of the noise-free signal. I want to know if taking complex conjugation of a continuous time signal, like a sinusoidal signal, is possible in reality.
 

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