Complex number geometrical problem

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on demonstrating geometrically that if |z|=1, then the imaginary part of the expression $Im[z/(z+1)^2]=0$. Participants emphasize the importance of understanding arguments of complex numbers, specifically that the imaginary part is zero when the argument is either 0 or π. A geometric approach is suggested, involving the construction of a triangle with vertices at (0, z, z+1) to visualize the relationship between the angles of z and z+1.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex numbers and their properties
  • Familiarity with the concept of arguments in complex analysis
  • Basic knowledge of geometric representations of complex numbers
  • Ability to interpret and sketch geometric figures in the complex plane
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of complex number arguments and their implications
  • Learn how to construct geometric representations of complex expressions
  • Explore the relationship between complex numbers and their polar forms
  • Investigate the implications of the triangle inequality in complex geometry
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students of complex analysis, and anyone interested in geometric interpretations of complex numbers will benefit from this discussion.

amr21
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Show geometrically that if |z|=1 then, $Im[z/(z+1)^2]=0$

I am unsure how to begin this problem. I have sketched out |z|=1 but can't work out how to sketch the Imaginary part of the question.
 
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amr21 said:
Show geometrically that if |z|=1 then, $Im[z/(z+1)^2]=0$

I am unsure how to begin this problem. I have sketched out |z|=1 but can't work out how to sketch the Imaginary part of the question.

Hi amr21,

You should think in terms of arguments. In particular, for any complex numbers $a$ and $b$:

  • $\mbox{Im}(a) = 0$ if $\arg(a)=0$ or $\arg(a)=\pi$.
  • $\arg(ab) = \arg(a) + \arg(b) \pmod{2\pi}$

Try to use that to convert the question into a question about arguments.

You should then make a complete drawing. Pick a point $z$ such that $|z|=1$ and look at the triangle $(0,z,z+1)$.

Can you try that ? Write back if you need further help.
 
castor28 said:
Hi amr21,

You should think in terms of arguments. In particular, for any complex numbers $a$ and $b$:

  • $\mbox{Im}(a) = 0$ if $\arg(a)=0$ or $\arg(a)=\pi$.
  • $\arg(ab) = \arg(a) + \arg(b) \pmod{2\pi}$

Try to use that to convert the question into a question about arguments.

You should then make a complete drawing. Pick a point $z$ such that $|z|=1$ and look at the triangle $(0,z,z+1)$.

Can you try that ? Write back if you need further help.

I don't think I understand, could you explain further? :)
 
amr21 said:
I don't think I understand, could you explain further? :)

Let's take a look at a picture:
\begin{tikzpicture}[scale=3]
\coordinate (O) at (0,0);
\coordinate (Z) at ({sqrt(1/2)},{sqrt(1/2)});
\coordinate (Zp1) at ({sqrt(1/2)+1},{sqrt(1/2)});
\draw circle (1);
\draw (O) -- (Z) -- (Zp1) -- cycle;
\draw (O) -- (1,0) -- (Zp1);
\draw (1,0) -- (Z);
\path (O) node[below left] {0} -- (Z) node[above] {z} -- (Zp1) node[above right] {z+1} -- (1,0) node[below right] {1};
\path (O) -- node[below] {1} (1,0) -- node[below] {1} (Zp1) -- node[above] {1} (Z) -- node[above] {1} (O);
\end{tikzpicture}

What can we say about the angle (with the real axis) of $z$ in relation to the angle of $z+1$?
 
amr21 said:
I don't think I understand, could you explain further? :)
Hi amr21,

Could you also confirm that you understand the first part, about converting the question to a question about arguments ? If you don't, could you pinpoint what you don't understand ?
 

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