Proof: Complex Number w^2+(5/w)-2=0 is Purely Imaginary

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around the equation w^2 + (5/w) - 2 = 0 and its implications for complex numbers. It is established that for this equation to be purely imaginary, it leads to the derived equation 2cos^2(theta) + 5cos(theta) - 3 = 0. Participants clarify that the term "purely imaginary" indicates that the real part of the equation does not equal zero, rather than the entire expression being zero. The confusion arises from the distinction between the equation being purely imaginary and the value of w itself. Ultimately, the goal is to find the value of w given these conditions.
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w=cos(theta) + isin(theta) where 0<theta<pi
if the complex number w^2 + (5/w) -2 = 0 is purely imaginary, show that 2cos^2 x + 5 cos (theta) -3=0.
Hence, find w.

any input would be appreciated, thx.
 
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I'm a bit confused... if w^2 + (5/w) -2 = 0 is purely imaginary... why do you need to say it's purely imaginary? Don't we already know it's zero? Or is w pure imaginary (in which case we just know cos(theta)=0)?
 
ahh good call. the complex number w^2 + (5/w) -2 is purely imaginary, doesn't necessarily equate to zero.
 
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