Is (1-Exp[-i x])^2 equal to Sin^2(x) in particle physics?

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    Exponential Trig
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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the expression (1-Exp[-i x])^2 and its potential equivalence to Sin^2(x) within the context of particle physics. Participants are examining the mathematical and conceptual implications of this relationship.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are interpreting the original question and questioning the validity of the proposed equivalence. Some are attempting to clarify the nature of the problem and the expressions involved.

Discussion Status

There appears to be a consensus among participants that the two expressions are not equal, with specific examples provided to illustrate this point. However, the original poster's intent and the exact nature of the problem remain unclear, prompting further inquiry.

Contextual Notes

Participants note a lack of clarity in the original post regarding the problem setup and any attempts made to solve it. There is also mention of potential confusion stemming from the intersection of algebraic manipulation and physical interpretation.

y35dp
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start point (1-Exp[-i x])^2, (i^2 = -1)

finish point Sin^2(x)
 
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umm... I don't quite understand what your question is or what to make of what you wrote.
 
I would interpret this as "given [itex]f(x)= (1- e^{-ix})^2[/itex] show that [itex]f(x)= sin^2(x)[/itex].

Except for the slight problem that they are NOT equal! For example, when [itex]x= \pi/2[/itex], [itex]1- e^{-i\pi/2}= 1+ i[/itex] while [itex]sin^2(\pi/2)= 1[/itex].

y35dp, can you please tell us what the problem really is?
 
That was my initial thought, that it was asking to show [tex](1-e^{-ix})^2\equiv sin^2x[/tex] but it isn't true so I was at a complete loss.

Whatever happened to the starter thread layout with the problem, equations and attempt titles?
 
ok this confirms my thoughts that the two aren't equal this is a particle physics problem but i though the issue was my algebra but the issue must be with my physics!
 

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