Complex Number Problems in Applied Maths

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Discussion Overview

The discussion focuses on problems involving complex numbers in applied mathematics, specifically addressing proofs and solutions related to trigonometric identities and polynomial equations using De Moivre's theorem.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a proof involving a series of cosines and proposes a formula involving complex numbers.
  • Another participant requests clarification on the original poster's attempts to solve the problems, suggesting that sharing their work could help identify mistakes.
  • Multiple participants attempt to solve polynomial equations using De Moivre's theorem, with one participant noting unsuccessful attempts at substitution and factoring.
  • A later reply suggests that the polynomials can be factorized, providing a partial factorization as a method to approach the problem.
  • Another participant confirms they successfully solved the polynomial equations by factorizing and applying De Moivre's theorem, thanking the previous contributor for their guidance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the best approach to solving the polynomial equations, as participants express different methods and experiences. Some participants agree on the factorization approach, while others are still exploring their solutions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants' attempts to solve the equations involve assumptions about factorization and substitution that may not be universally applicable. The discussion does not resolve the effectiveness of the proposed methods.

anil86
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This is a thread for complex number problems in applied mathematics.

1. Prove that: 1 + cos x + cos 2x + ...cos (n - 1)x
= {1 - cos x + cos (n - 1)x - cos nx} / 2 (1 - cos x)

= 1/2 + [{sin (n - 1/2)x}/2sin (x/2)]2. If a = cos x + i sin x, b = cos y + i sin y, c = cos z + i sin z, prove that

{(b + c) (c + a) (a + b)}/abc = 8 cos (x - y)/2 cos (y - z)/2 cos (z - x)/2
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I have moved this topic here to our Pre-Calculus sub-forum as it is a better fit than Number Theory.

Can you show what you have tried so our helpers know where you are stuck and what mistake(s) you may be making?
 
Solve equations using De Moivre's theorem:

1. x^7 + x^4 + x^3 + 1 = 0

2. x^7 - x^4 + x^3 - 1 = 0I tried multiplying with (x - 1). Also tried putting x^3 = y; didn't work.
 
anil86 said:
Solve equations using De Moivre's theorem:

1. x^7 + x^4 + x^3 + 1 = 0

2. x^7 - x^4 + x^3 - 1 = 0I tried multiplying with (x - 1). Also tried putting x^3 = y; didn't work.
Those polynomials factorise, e.g. $x^7 + x^4 + x^3 + 1 = x^4(x^3 +1) + x^3+1 = \ldots$.
 
Opalg said:
Those polynomials factorise, e.g. $x^7 + x^4 + x^3 + 1 = x^4(x^3 +1) + x^3+1 = \ldots$.

Hi Opalg,

I solved it by first factorizing & then using De-Moivre theorem as suggested by you. Thank you.

Anil
 

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