Graph of a Complex Number (basic concept)

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the graphical representation of complex numbers, specifically focusing on the argument of a complex number and its implications for sketching a region defined by the angle constraints 0 ≤ arg(z) ≤ π/4, excluding the origin.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the definition of the argument of a complex number and its graphical representation. There is uncertainty about the correct shape of the region to be graphed, with some suggesting it resembles a wedge, while others express confusion about visualizing this concept.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided clarifications regarding the nature of the argument and its graphical implications, suggesting that the region is not a punctured disk but rather a wedge. However, there remains a lack of consensus on the visualization, with some participants still struggling to grasp the concept fully.

Contextual Notes

Participants are working under the constraints of homework guidelines, which may limit the amount of direct assistance they can receive. There is also an acknowledgment of the difficulty in visualizing the concept of a wedge formed by the specified angle constraints.

DEMJ
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Homework Statement



Sketch [tex]0 \le arg z \le \frac{\pi}{4}[/tex] [tex](z \not= 0)[/tex]

The Attempt at a Solution



I know from my book that his is a punctured disk aka deleted neighborhood only because it says so and because it is in the form of [tex]0 < \mid z - z_0 \mid < \epsilon[/tex]. I honestly have no clue how to graph this or even visual how it is a disk with a hole in it. Anyone care to mention or explain anything that will help me understand this concept and eventually be able to graph it. Thank you.
 
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It's not a punctured disk. If you can explain to me what you think arg(z) is, I think I can explain what the graph looks like. If you can explain that clearly, you probably won't need me to explain what the graph looks like.
 
honestly I always think of it as the angle in radians you get when you graph a complex number z = x + iy but this may be wrong =[
 
DEMJ said:
honestly I always think of it as the angle in radians you get when you graph a complex number z = x + iy but this may be wrong =[

No, that's exactly right. So the region you are graphing should look more like a wedge, shouldn't it?
 
I do not even know how to begin graphing this so I honestly do not see how it looks like a wedge...sigh.

All I can visualize is a vector z = x + iy with theta = pi/4 but this is can't be right and 0 must be involved somehow
 
Last edited:
Sigh. The set of points where arg(z)=0 is the positive x-axis, right? The set of points where arg(z)=pi/4 is a ray at 45 degrees to the x-axis, right? What you want are the points whose angles are in between. I would call that a "wedge". What would you call it?
 
Wow I feel embarrassed how straight forward it is yet I could not grasp it by myself LOL, and I would call it Sergeant Dick Amazing (lol just kidding) and thank you for clearing this up for me kind sir.
 
You'll do better next time, right? Not all 'complex' problems are hard.
 

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