Complex Numbers: Defining an Ordered System

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the definition and properties of complex numbers, particularly in the context of whether they can be considered as ordered pairs and how they relate to functions in complex analysis. The scope includes theoretical aspects and conceptual clarifications regarding complex numbers and their representation in mathematical functions.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that complex numbers can be viewed as ordered pairs, with specific definitions for addition and multiplication.
  • Others discuss the mapping of complex numbers through functions, suggesting that each complex number z corresponds to a different complex number w in a different complex plane.
  • One participant challenges the validity of a statement regarding the ordered nature of complex numbers, indicating a lack of reference or source for that claim.
  • Another participant mentions the limited ability to define the imaginary unit i within the real number set, leading to the creation of a new set that includes both real and imaginary components.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the nature of complex numbers as ordered pairs and the implications of this for their use in functions. There is no consensus on the definitions or the validity of certain claims made in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Some statements rely on standard constructions in complex analysis, but participants note the absence of references for certain claims, which may affect the discussion's grounding in established literature.

lostcauses10x
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Complex numbers?
Since the system is not an ordered pair, how then is it defined using the complex system as an ordered system to plot the z axis (Plane) to use a function?
At the point we input each point of the Real and imaginary plane into a function to get out an answer in the Z plane, is it now an ordered pair per point on input ?
 
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A complex number is an ordered pair.
 
In complex analysis, the relation w = f(z), where f is some function and w and z are complex number, is thought of as a mapping, whereby for each number z, the function f(z) points to, or 'maps', a different complex number w in a different complex plane.
 
DrClaude said:
A complex number is an ordered pair.

To be precise, we construct the complex numbers from a ordered pairs of real numbers by defining addition and multiplication.
 
pwsnafu
Where as I believe it is correct, in the link you gave: it is a statement given without any reference or source.
 
lostcauses10x said:
pwsnafu
Where as I believe it is correct, in the link you gave: it is a statement given without any reference or source.

It's the standard construction of the complex numbers. If you want a reference, see any text on complex analysis of algebra ever published.
 
Hey folks thanks. Simply put based of the limited ability to define i to the real set we created an set with the real and imaginary that is an analogy. of course from there end up with complex analysis etc.
Not sure what the "Mon" replies are, seem to add noting to the discussion.
 

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