Elementary Complex Number Problems

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around various problems related to complex numbers, specifically focusing on finding magnitudes and arguments of complex expressions. Participants explore methods for calculating these values without expanding expressions, as well as addressing specific examples and potential errors in their calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant asks if the magnitude of the expression $|\frac{i(2+i)^3}{(1-i)^2}|$ can be found without expanding the numerator.
  • Another participant suggests converting to polar coordinates as a method to simplify the calculation of the magnitude.
  • Several participants discuss how to find the argument of the complex number $-2\sqrt{3}-2i$, with one proposing that the argument is $\pi$ based on a specific definition involving the imaginary part of the logarithm.
  • Another participant expresses confusion about finding the argument of $-\frac{1}{2}$ and shares their approach, which involves solving for $\theta$ using cosine and sine relationships.
  • One participant raises a question about finding the argument of the product $(1-i)(-\sqrt{3} + i)$, noting difficulty in solving for $\theta$ when given a specific cosine value.
  • Another participant mentions using Wolfram|Alpha to find the argument of the same product, providing a specific result.
  • There is a recurring theme of uncertainty regarding whether these problems are expected to be solved by hand or if computational tools are acceptable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods and approaches to solving the problems, but there is no consensus on the best method or the correctness of specific calculations. Disagreements arise regarding the arguments of certain complex numbers, and some participants question the expectations for solving these problems manually versus using computational tools.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention confusion regarding the ranges of angles when determining arguments, indicating potential limitations in their understanding of the definitions involved. Specific calculations and assumptions are not fully resolved, leaving room for further exploration.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students and enthusiasts of complex numbers, particularly those seeking to understand different methods for calculating magnitudes and arguments, as well as those interested in the nuances of complex analysis.

nacho-man
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1.
$|\frac{i(2+i)^3}{(1-i)^2}|$

Is there any way to complete this without expanding the numerator?2. what is the argument of $ -2\sqrt{3}-2i$
I got $r=4$

then
$\cos\theta_1 $ $= \frac{-2}{\sqrt{3}{4}}$ and $-2=4\sin\theta_2$
$\theta_1 = \pi - \frac{\pi}{6} = 5\frac{\pi}{6}$ and
$\theta_2 = \frac{-\pi}{6}$
so
Arg = $4cis(\frac{-\pi}{3})$ which is wrong according to my solutions and it should be $\frac{-5\pi}{6}$

where did i go wrong?


2. what is the method of finding the argument of -1/2.

so $z = -\frac{1}{2}$
and $r = \frac{1}{2}$

to solve for theta, i always get confused here.

i let
$-\frac{1}{2} = \frac{1}{2}\cos\theta_{1}$ and $-\frac{1}{2}=\frac{1}{2}\sin\theta_{2}$ and solve

usually my $\theta_{2}$ ends up being wrong due to some error i make in the range. What would I do from here, being as meticulous and thorough in my working as possible?
in this example, i made no mistake.
i will edit this section with a question i get wrong, of similar fashion.
Thanks.
 
Last edited:
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Re: elementary problems

nacho said:
2. what is the method of finding the argument of -1/2.

In my opinion the 'good definition' of $\displaystyle \text{arg}\ z$ is the following...

$\displaystyle \text{arg}\ z = \mathcal{Im} (\ln z)\ (1)$

On the basis of (1) is...

ln (- 1/2) - Wolfram|Alpha

$\displaystyle \text{arg}\ (- \frac{1}{2}) = \pi\ (2)$

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
Re: elementary problems

how would i find the argument of
$(1-i)(-\sqrt{3} + i)$
I get $r = 2\sqrt{2}$

but when solving for theta i get stuck because it gives:

$ \frac{\sqrt{3}+1}{2\sqrt{2}} = \cos\theta$ which i cannot solve.
 
Re: elementary problems

nacho said:
how would i find the argument of
$(1-i)(-\sqrt{3} + i)$
I get $r = 2\sqrt{2}$

but when solving for theta i get stuck because it gives:

$ \frac{\sqrt{3}+1}{2\sqrt{2}} = \cos\theta$ which i cannot solve.

Also in this case 'Monster Wolfram' works excellently!...

ln [(1 - i)/(i - sqrt(3))] - Wolfram|Alpha

$\displaystyle \text{Im}\ (\ln \frac{1-i}{i - \sqrt{3}}) = \frac{11}{12}\ \pi\ (1)$

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$
 
we are not expected to solve these by hand?
 
nacho said:
1.
$|\frac{i(2+i)^3}{(1-i)^2}|$

Is there any way to complete this without expanding the numerator?

Yes, convert to polars.
 
nacho said:
1.
$|\frac{i(2+i)^3}{(1-i)^2}|$
Is there any way to complete this without expanding the numerator?

\left| {\frac{{i{{(2 + i)}^3}}}{{{{(1 - i)}^2}}}} \right| = \frac{{|i||2 + i{|^3}}}{{|1 - i{|^2}}}
 
Plato said:
\left| {\frac{{i{{(2 + i)}^3}}}{{{{(1 - i)}^2}}}} \right| = \frac{{|i||2 + i{|^3}}}{{|1 - i{|^2}}}

I just wasn't sure how to proceed with the $|(2+i)|^3$ term.
would i need expand the entire term or?
 
Re: elementary problems

chisigma said:
In my opinion the 'good definition' of $\displaystyle \text{arg}\ z$ is the following...

$\displaystyle \text{arg}\ z = \mathcal{Im} (\ln z)\ (1)$

On the basis of (1) is...

ln (- 1/2) - Wolfram|Alpha

$\displaystyle \text{arg}\ (- \frac{1}{2}) = \pi\ (2)$

Kind regards

$\chi$ $\sigma$

I think what is meant by argument is finding the angle $$\theta$$ of the complex number vector with the x-axis.
 
  • #10
nacho said:
I just wasn't sure how to proceed with the $|(2+i)|^3$ term.
would i need expand the entire term or?

$$|2+i|=\sqrt{5}$$ so $$|2+i|^3=\sqrt{5}^3$$
 

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