Is It Possible to Prove the Complex Number Challenge?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on proving the equation $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)]=\arg(a+bi)+\arg(c+di)$, specifically addressing the nuances of the principal argument in complex numbers. Participants clarify that the equation does not hold if either complex number is zero and that the left and right sides can differ by $2\pi$ when using the principal value. The complexities of the argument function, particularly its multivalued nature and non-injectivity, are emphasized, highlighting the need for careful consideration in such proofs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex numbers and their representation as $a + bi$.
  • Familiarity with the concept of the argument of a complex number.
  • Knowledge of the principal value of the argument and its implications.
  • Basic grasp of modular arithmetic, particularly with $2\pi$.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the properties of complex numbers, focusing on multiplication and argument functions.
  • Learn about the principal value of the argument and its limitations in complex analysis.
  • Explore the concept of multivalued functions in mathematics.
  • Investigate the implications of non-injectivity in complex functions.
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students of complex analysis, and anyone interested in the properties of complex numbers and their arguments.

Greg
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Prove that $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)]=\arg(a+bi)+\arg(c+di)$.
 
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greg1313 said:
Prove that $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)]=\arg(a+bi)+\arg(c+di)$.

we have $(a+bi)(c+di) = (ac - db) + (bc + ad)i$
hence $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)] = \arg (ac - db) + (bc + ad)i$
or $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)] = \arctan (\frac{bc + ad}{ac-db})$
$= \arctan (\frac{\frac{b}{a}+ \frac{d}{c}}{1 - \frac{b}{a}\frac{d}{c}})$
$= \arctan (\tan ( \arctan(\frac{b}{a}) + \arctan(\frac{d}{c}))$
$= \arctan(\frac{b}{a}) + \arctan(\frac{d}{c})$
$=\arg(a+bi)+\arg(c+di)$.
 
Last edited:
Let $z_1 = a + bi$ and $z_2 = c + di$. Express these complex numbers in polar form as:
$$z_1 = r_1 e^{i \theta_1}$$
$$z_2 = r_2 e^{i \theta_2}$$
By simple complex multiplication:
$$z_1 z_2 = r_1 e^{i \theta_1} r_2 e^{i \theta_2} = r_1 r_2 e^{i \left ( \theta_1 + \theta_2 \right )}$$
It follows by definition of the complex argument that:
$$\mathrm{arg} ~ z_1 = \theta_1$$
$$\mathrm{arg} ~ z_2 = \theta_2$$
$$\mathrm{arg} ~ z_1 z_2 = \theta_1 + \theta_2 = \left ( \mathrm{arg} ~ z_1 \right ) + \left ( \mathrm{arg} ~ z_2 \right )$$
$$\blacksquare$$
 
greg1313 said:
Prove that $\arg[(a+bi)(c+di)]=\arg(a+bi)+\arg(c+di)$.

I suppose you mean the principle argument because the given function is multivalued!
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
I suppose you mean the principle argument because the given function is multivalued!

Yes, thanks.
 
I note, in passing, that the proposition stated cannot hold if just one of the two complex numbers is zero (even if one adopts the convention that $\arg(0) = 0$).
 
ZaidAlyafey said:
I suppose you mean the principle argument because the given function is multivalued!
On the contrary, the result is false if you insist on the principal value of the argument, because the left and right sides can differ by $2\pi.$
 
Opalg said:
On the contrary, the result is false if you insist on the principal value of the argument, because the left and right sides can differ by $2\pi.$

I don't see how is that possible ? Give an example please.
 
Opalg said:
On the contrary, the result is false if you insist on the principal value of the argument, because the left and right sides can differ by $2\pi.$

OK, I think the values should be taking modulo $2\pi$.
 
  • #10
The situation is this:

The complex exponential turns sums of angles into products of unit complex numbers. But this function is not injective, so taking the inverse (which is essentially what this problem asks us to do) requires some qualification.
 
  • #11
I should have put more thought into what I was asking. My apologies and thanks for the replies.
 
  • #12
greg1313 said:
I should have put more thought into what I was asking. My apologies and thanks for the replies.

Such topics are confusing sometimes and an extra care must be taking when dealing with them. I personally face difficulties dealing with some of these concepts.
 

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