Exponential functions, and complex numbers

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation e^(iz) = i - 1, focusing on the manipulation of exponential functions and complex numbers. Participants explore various methods to rearrange the equation for z, including the use of logarithms and trigonometric identities.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Mathematical reasoning
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about how to handle the exponential function in the equation e^(iz) = i - 1.
  • Another participant suggests taking the logarithm of both sides to solve for z, noting that some textbooks use ln instead of log.
  • A participant proposes that z = ln(i - 1)/i might be a solution but questions its simplicity.
  • Discussion includes the representation of e^(iz) as cos(z) + isin(z) and how to equate this to i - 1.
  • Another participant suggests considering the intersection of the line segment between i - 1 and 1 with the unit circle and using trigonometry for further analysis.
  • One participant elaborates on the form of the solution, indicating that z will be complex and providing a method to express i - 1 in polar form.
  • A participant raises a question about the manipulation of logarithms with complex numbers, specifically regarding the division of complex numbers.
  • Another participant confirms the approach of taking the logarithm and notes that z = log(i - 1)/i represents the principal value, mentioning that there are other values as well.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the approach of using logarithms to solve for z, but there are varying interpretations and methods proposed, indicating that multiple competing views remain on how to proceed with the solution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved aspects regarding the manipulation of complex logarithms and the interpretation of the solutions, particularly concerning the principal value and other potential values of z.

string_656
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hey I am doing some questions outta a txt book, i sort of understand complex numbers, like multiplying and dividing, ..

The question asks to rearrange for z,
e^(iz) = i - 1

im not sure what to do with the exponential function.

thanks for the help
 
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Are you familiar with the log function for complex variables?
 
hmmm no... that sounds like that could help
 
.. does any 1 no how i could solve this?
 
You want to take the log of both sides of the equation. Look in your textbook for more information.

Note: some books use ln instead of log.

HTH

Petek
 
hmm ok so that gives...

z = ln(i - 1)/i
it can't be that easy?

what about... since e^(iz) = cos(z) + isin(z)

cos(z) + isin(z) = i - 1
Then how would i solve for Z?
 
Think about where the line segment between i - 1 and 1 intersects the unit circle. Use trigonometry since exp(z)=exp(x+y*i)=exp(x)*[cos(y)+i*sin(y)]
 
string_656 said:
hmm ok so that gives...

z = ln(i - 1)/i
it can't be that easy?

what about... since e^(iz) = cos(z) + isin(z)

cos(z) + isin(z) = i - 1
Then how would i solve for Z?

z = ln(i - 1)/i
is right, it depends on the form you want the answer in

solving this will work but z will be complex
cos(z) + isin(z) = i - 1

write i-1=sqrt(2)(i*sqrt(2)/2-sqrt(2)/2)
then solve
exp(x)=sqrt(2)
and
cos(y) + isin(y)=(i*sqrt(2)/2-sqrt(2)/2)
y real so
cos(y)=-sqrt(2)/2
sin(y)=sqrt(2)/2
tan(y)=-1
 
hmm ok .. just a question, when its iz = ln|i-1|

wouldnt i go z = ln(i-1) * (0+i)
(0 - i) * (0+i)
because I am just remembering when you divide complex numbers that's all.
 
  • #10
opps that didnt post right
wouldnt i go z = ln(i-1)/(0 - i) *(0+i)/(0+i)
 
  • #11
exp(iz)=i-1
take log
log(exp(iz))=log(i-1)
log cancels exp
iz=log(i-1)
divide by i
z=log(i-1)/i
that is the principle value , there are others
 
  • #12
oh, ok thanks.
 

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