Complex number geometrical problem

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a geometrical problem involving complex numbers, specifically examining the condition that if |z|=1, then the imaginary part of the expression $z/(z+1)^2$ is zero. Participants explore how to approach this problem geometrically and conceptually.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest thinking in terms of arguments of complex numbers to determine when the imaginary part is zero.
  • It is proposed that $\mbox{Im}(a) = 0$ if $\arg(a)=0$ or $\arg(a)=\pi$, and that the argument of a product of complex numbers can be expressed as the sum of their arguments.
  • A geometric representation involving a triangle formed by the points (0, z, z+1) is introduced to visualize the problem.
  • One participant shares a sketch to illustrate the relationship between the angles of z and z+1 with respect to the real axis.
  • There is a request for further clarification on converting the original question into a question about arguments, indicating some uncertainty about this step.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty and seek clarification on the approach to the problem, indicating that there is no consensus on how to proceed with the geometric interpretation or the argument conversion.

Contextual Notes

Some participants may have missing assumptions about the properties of complex numbers or the geometric interpretation of the problem, which could affect their understanding of the 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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