Linear algebra - solve linear system with complex constants

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on solving a linear system with complex constants involving the imaginary unit \(i\). The system consists of three equations: \(ix + (1+i)y = i\), \((1-i)x + y - iz = 1\), and \(iy + z = 1\). Participants emphasize simplifying powers of \(i\) using the fact that \(i^2 = -1\) to reduce complexity. The solution involves substituting \(z = 1 - y\) into the equations, leading to a straightforward resolution of the variables \(x\), \(y\), and \(z\).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of complex numbers, specifically the imaginary unit \(i\).
  • Familiarity with linear algebra concepts, particularly solving systems of equations.
  • Knowledge of substitution methods in algebra.
  • Ability to manipulate algebraic expressions involving complex constants.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study methods for solving systems of linear equations with complex coefficients.
  • Learn about the properties of complex numbers, including operations and simplifications.
  • Explore substitution techniques in linear algebra for more complex systems.
  • Investigate the implications of complex solutions in real-world applications.
USEFUL FOR

Students of linear algebra, mathematicians dealing with complex systems, and anyone interested in advanced algebraic techniques involving complex numbers.

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Solve the following linear system:
ix + (1+i)y = i
(1-i)x + y - iz = 1
iy + z = 1


I am getting nowhere with this.
is there a trick to do these? I keep getting more and more variations of i. like i^2-1, and (1-i^2)-1

ix + (1+i)y=i
(1-i)x + y-iz=1
y + z = 1

ix + (1+i)y = i
i(1-i)x - (i^2-1)z = i-1 [iR2-r3]
[(1-i)(1+i)-i]x - (1+i)iz = (1+i)-i [(1+i)R2-R1]

okay.. and i simplified this, and got stuck.

ix + (1+i) = i
i(1-i)x + (1-i^2)z = i-1
[(1-i^2)-i]x - (1+i)iz = 1any help would be great, thanks.
 
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Since i is the sqrt(-1) then i^2 = -1. That will simplify all of your powers of i down to simple complex numbers. Other than that there is nothing different or unusual in solving this system.
 
Looks to me like it's straight forward. If y+ z= 1 then clearly z= 1- y. Put that into the second equation and you have (1-i)x+ y- i- iy= (1-i)x+ (1-i)y= 1- i so x+ y= 1. From that, y= 1-x so the first equation becomes ix+ (1+i)(1-x)= ix+ 1-x+i- ix= x+ 1-i= i. That should be easy to solve.
 

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