Patterns found in complex numbers

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on using De Moivre's theorem to solve the equation z^n = i for n=3, 4, and 5, with an initial solution for z^3 yielding incorrect results. The correct approach involves expressing i in polar form and applying the theorem to find the roots. Participants clarify the calculations, noting that the third solution should be -i instead of the previously stated value. The conversation also touches on generalizing solutions for z^n = 1 + bi, particularly when |a + bi| = 1, and considers implications when |a + bi| ≠ 1. Overall, the thread emphasizes the importance of accurate calculations in complex number solutions.
lll030lll
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Patterns found in complex numbers URGENT!

  • use de moivre's theorem to obtain solutions to z^n = i for n=3, 4, 5
  • generalise and prove your results for z^n = 1+bi, where |a+bi|=1
  • what happens when |a+bi|≠1?

Relevant equations[/b]
r = √a^2 + b^2
z^n = r^n cis (nθ)


This is what i have done:
z^3=i
z^3=i cis(0)
z^3=cis(π/2+2kπ),k=0,1,2
z=cis(π/6+2kπ/3),k=0,1,2
z=cis(π/6),cis(π/6+2π/3),cis(π/6+4π/3)
z=√3/2+0.5i,-√3/2+0.5i,- √3/2-0.5i

but the 3rd solution is incorrect, should be -i. what have i done wrong?
 
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welcome to pf!

hi lll030lll! welcome to pf! :smile:
lll030lll said:
z=cis(π/6+2kπ/3),k=0,1,2
z=cis(π/6),cis(π/6+2π/3),cis(π/6+4π/3)
z=√3/2+0.5i,-√3/2+0.5i,- √3/2-0.5i

but the 3rd solution is incorrect, should be -i. what have i done wrong?

dunno, but π/6+4π/3 = 9π/6 :redface:

(personally, i find degrees easier … 30°, 30° ± 120° :wink:)
 


anyway, got it right in using a+bi=re^iθ
 
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