Finding root of complex equation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around finding the roots of a complex quadratic equation: 3ix² + 6x - i = 0, where i represents the imaginary unit. Participants are exploring the nature of the roots, particularly the presence of real and imaginary components.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply the quadratic formula but encounters difficulties in interpreting the results, particularly regarding the real and imaginary parts of the roots. Some participants suggest rewriting the expression to clarify the components, while others question whether a real part exists in the final answer.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes attempts to clarify the interpretation of the roots, with some guidance provided on manipulating the expressions. The original poster indicates they have resolved their confusion, suggesting a productive direction has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating the complexities of working with complex numbers and the implications of the quadratic formula in this context. There is an acknowledgment of the need to express the roots in terms of both real and imaginary parts, which remains a point of discussion.

Timmy Time
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Homework Statement


Good day,

I've been have having difficulties finding the roots of this:
Find the roots of 3ix^2 + 6x - i = 0
where i = complex number
i = sqrt(-1)

Homework Equations


quadratic formula (apologies for the large image)
quadratic-formula.jpg


The Attempt at a Solution



using the quadratic formula
[-6 (+-) sqrt (36 - 4(3i)i)] / 6i
= (-6/6i) + (sqrt(24)/6i)
multiplying by conjugate I get:
=i (+-) ((-6i * sqrt(24))/ 36)

I'm stuck here.
apparently the roots should have both real and imaginary parts, but I have 2 imaginary parts. ie x = Re + i Im
what exactly do I have to do next?

Thank you.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
You got ##i ^+_- \frac{\sqrt(24)}{6i}##
Now you can write it as ##i ^+_- \frac{2\sqrt(6)}{6i}##
now 1/i=-i
so ##i ^+_- (-i\frac{2\sqrt(6)}{6})## Now take a +/- B as a+b and a-b
 
so, there is no real part for the left side of the answer?
or should I express the answer as:
(0 + i) + (−i * ((2√6)/6) ) and (0 + i) - (−i * ((2√6)/6) )
 
oh, never mind.
I've finally got it.Thank you for your time.
 

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