Complex Numbers - Complex Roots of Unity

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around simplifying a complex fraction involving trigonometric functions, specifically the expression (1 + cosθ + isinθ) / (1 - cosθ - isinθ) and its relation to icotθ/2. Participants are exploring the transformation of angles and the application of trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss attempts to manipulate the given expression by multiplying by a conjugate, but express confusion over the transition to half-angle identities and the simplification process. Questions arise regarding the derivation of the θ/2 terms and the application of double-angle formulas.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the use of double-angle formulas and their implications for the problem, suggesting a potential pathway for understanding the relationship between the angles involved. However, there is no explicit consensus on the overall approach or solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of the problem and the potential for misunderstanding the application of trigonometric identities, particularly in the context of homework constraints and expectations.

shabi
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Need help with this please:

Homework Statement


(1 + cosθ + isinθ) / (1 - cosθ - isinθ) = icotθ/2

The first step in the solutions shows:

(2cos^2θ/2 + i2sinθ/2cosθ/2) / (2sin^2θ/2 - i2sinθ/2cosθ/2)

Homework Equations



I can't get there.

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried multiplying by: (1 - cosθ + isinθ) / (1 - cosθ + isinθ), with no luck.

the top line of my attempt shows i2sinθ + i2sinθcosθ
because 1-cos^2θ=sin^2θmy signs could be wrong but still. how does the θ become θ/2. this is doing my head in. maybe just sleep on it.
 
Last edited:
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shabi said:
Need help with this please:

Homework Statement


(1 + cosθ + isinθ) / (1 - cosθ - isinθ) = icotθ/2

The first step in the solutions shows:

(2cos^2θ/2 + i2sinθ/2cosθ/2) / (2sin^2θ/2 - i2sinθ/2cosθ/2)

Homework Equations



I can't get there.

The Attempt at a Solution



I tried multiplying by: (1 - cosθ + isinθ) / (1 - cosθ + isinθ), with no luck.

the top line of my attempt shows i2sinθ + i2sinθcosθ
because 1-cos^2θ=sin^2θmy signs could be wrong but still. how does the θ become θ/2. this is doing my head in. maybe just sleep on it.

OK, you know from the standard double-angle formulae that \sin{2\alpha} = 2\sin\alpha\cos\alpha and that \cos{2\alpha} = 2\cos^2{\alpha} - 1 = 1 - 2\sin^2{\alpha}.

Now put \alpha = \frac{\theta}{2}.

The results you get are often called the half-angle formulae, but it's not worth remembering them specifically because they're so easily derived from the double-angle formulae.
 
Thanks for the prompt reply and pointing that out!

So simple now i can see that.
 
shabi said:
Thanks for the prompt reply and pointing that out!

So simple now i can see that.

You're welcome.
 

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