How Do You Calculate the Fourth Root of i Cubed?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the fourth root of \(i^3\), where \(i\) represents the imaginary unit. The solution involves expressing \(i\) in exponential form as \(e^{i\pi/2}\) and applying the laws of exponents to find \(i^{-\frac{3}{4}}\). The result highlights the non-uniqueness of complex roots, similar to square roots, due to the periodic nature of the exponential function in the complex plane.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex numbers and their representation
  • Familiarity with Euler's formula, \(e^{ix} = \cos x + i\sin x\)
  • Knowledge of exponent laws in complex analysis
  • Concept of non-uniqueness in complex roots
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of complex numbers and their polar forms
  • Learn about Euler's formula and its applications in complex analysis
  • Explore the concept of roots of complex numbers and their non-uniqueness
  • Investigate advanced topics in complex analysis, such as analytic functions
USEFUL FOR

Students studying complex analysis, mathematicians interested in complex number properties, and anyone looking to deepen their understanding of exponentiation in the complex plane.

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[SOLVED] calculating complex number

Homework Statement



Calculate [tex]{i}^{\frac{3}{4}}[/tex]

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I tried with

[tex]i=cos\frac{pi}{2}+isin\frac{\pi}{2}[/tex]

[tex]i^3=cos\frac{3pi}{2}+isin\frac{3\pi}{2}[/tex]

[tex]i^3=-i[/tex]

[tex]\sqrt[4]{i^3}=\sqrt[4]{-i}[/tex]

I don't know where I should go out of here. Please help!
 
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Why don't you just go all the way at once? i=e^(i*pi/2). So i^(-3/4)=(e^(i*pi/2))^(-3/4). Now use laws of exponents. Notice this answer isn't unique. i is also equal to e^(i*(pi/2+2pi)=e^(i*5pi/2). This is the same sort of nonuniqueness you get with square roots.
 
Thanks. I solve it.
 

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