Conjugate e^(iz): Solving for z = nπ

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the relationship between the exponential function of a complex number and its conjugate, specifically exploring the condition under which \(\exp(i\bar{z}) = \overline{\exp(iz)}\) holds true, particularly focusing on the case where \(z = n\pi\) for any integer \(n\).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the implications of Euler's formula for complex numbers and question the validity of certain assumptions regarding the relationships between trigonometric functions of \(z\) and its conjugate.
  • Some participants express uncertainty about the conclusions drawn from the relationships between sine and cosine functions, particularly regarding the implications of equalities and the nature of complex numbers.
  • There are attempts to derive conditions under which the original equation holds, leading to discussions about the implications of specific values of \(z\).

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing various insights and questioning each other's reasoning. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of trigonometric identities and the nature of complex numbers, but there is no clear consensus on the conclusions drawn from the relationships discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of applying trigonometric identities to complex numbers and are considering the implications of specific cases, such as when \(z\) is purely imaginary or real. There is an ongoing examination of assumptions related to the properties of sine and cosine functions in the context of complex analysis.

guildmage
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Homework Statement



I want to show that

\exp \left( i\bar{z} \right) = \overline{\exp \left( iz \right)}

if and only if

z = n\pi

for any integer n.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


Utilizing Euler's formula, I got

\cos \bar{z} = \cos z

and

\sin \bar{z} = -\sin z

Though not fully convinced, I concluded that

\bar{z} = z

This then led me to

\sin z = 0

This obviously led me to the needed conclusion. But was I correct?
 
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Euler's formula is only valid for z a real number. Taking conjugates doesn't get you very far there. You should split z into x+iy and divvy up the exponential first
 
But Euler's formula has already been proven to apply even for complex numbers. My primary concern is whether or not

<br /> \exp \left( i\bar{z} \right) = \overline{\exp \left( iz \right)} <br />

would give me

<br /> \bar{z} = z <br />
 
I didn't mean valid there, I meant useful.

For example:

\cos \bar{z} = \cos z

and

\sin \bar{z} = - \sin z

is satisfied by any imaginary number (just by using the even/oddness of cosine/sine).

The problem though, is that if z is a complex number, you don't have that cos(z) and sin(z) are real numbers, so you can't draw the two relations you have
 
exp(i z)*=exp((i z)*)=exp(i*z*)=exp(-i z*)
it is also easy to see
exp(i z)=exp(-Im[z]+i Re[z])=exp(-Im[z])exp(i Re[z])
 
guildmage said:
\cos \bar{z} = \cos z

and

\sin \bar{z} = -\sin z

Though not fully convinced, I concluded that
<br /> \bar{z} = z <br />

That's a strange conclusion:wink:...If I told you \cos(0)=\cos(100\pi), would you then conclude 0=100\pi?
 
Alright. What if I say

<br /> \cos \bar{z} = \cos z <br />

would give me

<br /> \bar{z} = z + 2n\pi<br />

(Is this correct?)

I will then use it to say that

<br /> \sin \bar{z} = -\sin z <br />

gives me

\sin \left( z + 2n\pi \right) = -\sin z

This implies that

\sin z = -\sin z

Therefore,

z = n\pi
 
Why even use sine?
exp(i z*)=exp(-i z*)
exp(2i z*)=1
z=n pi
 

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