My way of finding lengths between 2 pts(complex numbers),what's wrong?

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The discussion addresses a problem involving the lengths between three points represented as complex numbers: U(2i), A(-√3 -i), and B(√3-i). The user initially attempts to calculate the lengths |AB| and |UA| using the formula |AB|=√{(b-a)^2}, leading to incorrect results. The error is identified in the calculation of |UA|, where the square of a complex number was miscalculated. The correct approach involves using the modulus of complex numbers, confirming that the lengths should be equal for the triangle UAB to be equilateral. The issue was resolved by clarifying the correct mathematical operations needed for complex numbers.
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[Solved]Length formula to find lengths between 2 pts(complex numbers),what's wrong?

Homework Statement


I've 3 pts U(2i),A(-√3 -i) & B(√3-i),all complex numbers.A question asks me to prove UAB is equilateral.


Homework Equations


|AB|=√{(b-a)^2} for finding lengths.


The Attempt at a Solution


So I try to find two of it's lengths AB and UA.
|AB|=√(b-a)^2
=√{4(3)}
=√12
|UA|=√{a-u}^2
=√(-√3-3i)^2
=√(3-9)
=√-6
The two lengths not same,what's wrong here?
 
Last edited:
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In general we can find the modulus of a complex number thus;

|z| = \sqrt{z\bar{z}}

Also note that \left(-\sqrt{3}-3i\right)^2 \neq (3-9) as you have in your solution for |UA|
 
Problem solved and thanks indeed*
 

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