Complex Variables Question (should be easy)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around complex variables, specifically focusing on the geometric interpretation of equations involving complex conjugates and magnitudes. The original poster seeks to sketch the set of points defined by the equation |2z̅ + i| = 4 and later explores another equation involving the real part of a complex number.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the interpretation of the equation and the implications of manipulating the equation, such as dividing by constants and taking conjugates. There is also exploration of the geometric representation of the resulting circles and lines.

Discussion Status

Participants have provided feedback on the original poster's attempts, with some clarifying misconceptions about the manipulation of complex numbers. There is an ongoing exploration of the implications of the equations presented, and while some conclusions are drawn, the discussion remains open to further inquiry.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of confusion regarding the manipulation of complex conjugates and the geometric interpretation of the results. The original poster expresses gratitude for the assistance received, suggesting a collaborative atmosphere in the discussion.

DEMJ
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Homework Statement



Sketch the set of points determined [tex]\mid 2\bar z + i \mid = 4[/tex].


Homework Equations



[tex]\mid z - z_0 \mid = r[/tex] and [tex]\mid \bar z \mid = \mid z \mid[/tex]


The Attempt at a Solution


I know that it will be the circle with radius = 4 and [tex]z_0[/tex] is the center of the circle and that the points that are relevant are the ones on the circle only because it is an equals sign. So with this equation what is throwing me off is the [tex]2z[/tex]. What I did was (not sure if this is part is legal) is divide both sides by 2 and obtained [tex]\mid z - (-\frac{1}{2}i) \mid = 2[/tex].

So this means I have a circle of [tex]r=2[/tex] and [tex]z_0 = (0, -\frac{1}{2})[/tex] to draw. Please let me know if this is correct or not. Thank you.
 
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Dividing by 2 is perfectly fine (since for any any real number [itex]c[/itex], you know [itex]|cz|=c|z|[/itex]), but you have another mistake:

[tex]|\bar{z}|=|z|\implies |2\bar{z}+i|=|\overline{(2\bar{z}+i)}|=|2z-i|\neq|2z+i|[/tex]
 
Oh so I should have just took the conjugate of [tex]|2\bar{z} + i| = |\overline{2\bar{z} + i}| = |2z -i|[/tex] then you get [tex]|z - \frac{1}{2}i| = 2[/tex]

So I should draw my circle with a center at [tex](0,\frac{1}{2})[/tex] and radius 2.

Thank you very much for the help I believe this solves that question.

Where should I start with this equation:
[tex]Re(\bar{z} - i) = 2[/tex]

I know that:
[tex]Re(\bar{z}) = Re(z) = \frac{z+\bar{z}}{2} = x[/tex]

So [tex]Re(\bar{z} - i) = Re(\bar{z}) -Re(i) = x + -Re(i)[/tex] Then the only thing I can think of is since i = (0,1) then the R(i) = (0,0). How does this look?
 
DEMJ said:
Oh so I should have just took the conjugate of [tex]|2\bar{z} + i| = |\overline{2\bar{z} + i}| = |2z -i|[/tex] then you get [tex]|z - \frac{1}{2}i| = 2[/tex]

So I should draw my circle with a center at [tex](0,\frac{1}{2})[/tex] and radius 2.

Yup!:approve:

I know that:
[tex]Re(\bar{z}) = Re(z) = \frac{z+\bar{z}}{2} = x[/tex]

So [tex]Re(\bar{z} - i) = Re(\bar{z}) -Re(i) = x + -Re(i)[/tex]

No, if [itex]Re(z) = \frac{z+\bar{z}}{2}[/itex], then

[tex]Re(\bar{z} - i)=\frac{(\bar{z} - i)+\overline{(\bar{z} - i)}}{2}[/tex]

right?
 
Yes you are right. So by this we have [tex]Re(\bar{z} - i)=\frac{(\bar{z} - i)+\overline{(\bar{z} - i)}}{2} = \frac{(\bar{z} - i) + (z + i)}{2} = \frac{(x - iy - i) + (x + iy + i)}{2} = \frac{2x}{2} = x[/tex]

So it's just the points that lie on the line of x = 2. I am pretty sure this is right and I am thankful for your great responses. Is there any way to rate people who reply?
 
DEMJ said:
Yes you are right. So by this we have [tex]Re(\bar{z} - i)=\frac{(\bar{z} - i)+\overline{(\bar{z} - i)}}{2} = \frac{(\bar{z} - i) + (z + i)}{2} = \frac{(x - iy - i) + (x + iy + i)}{2} = \frac{2x}{2} = x[/tex]

So it's just the points that lie on the line of x = 2. I am pretty sure this is right and I am thankful for your great responses.

Looks good to me!:approve:

Is there any way to rate people who reply?

I think there is a poll held in the general discussion forum at the end of the year for homework helper of the year, but other than that I don't think so.
 

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