Need help Simplifying this Equation

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The discussion centers on understanding the transition from the expression -s + i to s - i in a mathematical equation. The key clarification is that this change occurs by factoring out a negative one, as shown in the equation transformation. Additionally, there was confusion regarding the transition from (-s + i)² to (s - i)² in the denominator, which the user ultimately resolved. The participants emphasize the importance of careful manipulation of signs in complex equations. Overall, the discussion highlights common challenges in simplifying complex expressions.
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Hi, I've already worked out the question until part (a) but I don't understand how they go from (a) to (b) right at the bottom of the image.

How did they change -s + i to s - i ?

[PLAIN]http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/9366/unledrze.png

Thank you very much for your help.
 
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What is -(s - i) ?
 
SammyS said:
What is -(s - i) ?

Sorry to not have specified earlier.

s is a constant (complex argument s for Laplace transform) and i is the imaginary number.

Here's the solutions they provided. I though I should show you the bigger picture.

[PLAIN]http://img36.imageshack.us/img36/7600/captureir.jpg

Thank you.
 
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That was not the point! SammyS was trying to get you to see that they went from -s+i to s- i by factoring out a "-1": -(s- i)= -s+ i.
 
Ok thanks a lot hahahaha I feel so stupid.

Actually I was panicking about the (-s + i)^2 to (s - i)^2 change at the denominator. Now I've just worked it out to be equal...

Thanks a lot.
 
Question: A clock's minute hand has length 4 and its hour hand has length 3. What is the distance between the tips at the moment when it is increasing most rapidly?(Putnam Exam Question) Answer: Making assumption that both the hands moves at constant angular velocities, the answer is ## \sqrt{7} .## But don't you think this assumption is somewhat doubtful and wrong?

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