Help with complex loci on Argand diagram

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the loci of complex numbers represented on the Argand diagram, specifically focusing on two equations involving complex numbers. Participants are exploring the implications of manipulating expressions within modulus and the geometric interpretations of these transformations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the validity of multiplying expressions by the imaginary unit i within a modulus and its geometric implications. Questions arise regarding the transformations leading to the locus descriptions in the given equations.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights into the mathematical properties of complex numbers, such as the effect of rotation on the Argand plane. Others express uncertainty about the steps taken in the problem, indicating a mix of understanding and confusion. One participant has reported resolving their own questions, suggesting some progress in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of a lack of formal information in the textbook regarding the transformations being discussed, which may contribute to the participants' questions and attempts to clarify their understanding.

stfz
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Hi all, I'm hoping for some help/guidance on this problem:
1. Homework Statement

The complex number z is represented by the point P on the Argand diagram. Sketch and describe in words the locus of P if:

i) ##|2-iz|=2##
ii) ##|\dfrac{1+i}{z}-2|=2##

The solutions read:
i) ##|2-iz|=2 \Leftrightarrow |z+2i|=2##
ii) ##|\frac{1+i}{z} -2| = 2 \Leftrightarrow |z - \frac{1+i}{2}| = |z|##

In (i), apparently what they've done is multiplied the expression ##2-iz## within the modulus by ##i##. But it doesn't explain why that is valid...
With (ii), I have no idea how they did that...
Some help here would be appreciated - I haven't seen any formal information given on this in the book, and I can't see how the result is implied :(

Homework Equations



##|z-a|## represents the scalar/real distance between two complex numbers ##z## and ##a## on the Argand diagram.

The Attempt at a Solution



(i) - Multiplication of expression inside modulus by ##i## yields answer, but I don't have the proof for why this can be done.
(ii) - Not really sure how to start here.

Thanks!
Stephen :)
 
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Multiplying a complex number by i amounts to a rotation of +90 degrees on the Argand plane, but doesn't change the vector's length (modulus). Plot 5+i2 and -2+i5 to illustrate this.

So perhaps in the interest of simplifying the expression, multiplying by i inside a modulus is a useful technique?
 
stfz said:
Hi all, I'm hoping for some help/guidance on this problem:
1. Homework Statement

The complex number z is represented by the point P on the Argand diagram. Sketch and describe in words the locus of P if:

i) ##|2-iz|=2##
ii) ##|\dfrac{1+i}{z}-2|=2##

The solutions read:
i) ##|2-iz|=2 \Leftrightarrow |z+2i|=2##
ii) ##|\frac{1+i}{z} -2| = 2 \Leftrightarrow |z - \frac{1+i}{2}| = |z|##

In (i), apparently what they've done is multiplied the expression ##2-iz## within the modulus by ##i##. But it doesn't explain why that is valid...
With (ii), I have no idea how they did that...
Some help here would be appreciated - I haven't seen any formal information given on this in the book, and I can't see how the result is implied :(

Homework Equations



##|z-a|## represents the scalar/real distance between two complex numbers ##z## and ##a## on the Argand diagram.

The Attempt at a Solution



(i) - Multiplication of expression inside modulus by ##i## yields answer, but I don't have the proof for why this can be done.
(ii) - Not really sure how to start here.

Thanks!
Stephen :)

In (i) they used two facts:
(1) ##|z_1 z_2| = |z_1| \; |z_2|## for any two complex numbers ##z_1, z_2## (applied to ##z_1 = i##, ##z_2 = 2-iz##).
(2) ## i \times -i = +1##.
 
Thanks for the help :) I have figured it out. Thanks again :D Just proved it myself that if ##|z_1| = |z_2|##, then ##|kz_1|=|kz_2|, k\in C \cup R##
 

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