Question about the argument in a Complex Exponential

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The discussion clarifies that the expression e^-iwx can indeed be represented as cos(-wx) - isin(wx) by applying a substitution where u = wx. It emphasizes the use of Euler's formula, e^{-iu} = cos(u) - i sin(u), to derive the relationship. The even nature of the cosine function allows for simplification by removing the negative sign from the argument. Additionally, it notes that Euler's formula is applicable regardless of whether x is a real number. Overall, the transformation holds true under the discussed conditions.
Haku
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Homework Statement
e^-iwt = ?
Relevant Equations
Eulers formula
I know that e^-ix = cos(-x)-isin(x), but if we have e^-iwx does that equal cos(-wx) - isin(wx)?
Thanks
 
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Sure, why not? Just do a u-sub. Let ##u = wx## then you have ##e^{-iu} = \cos u - i\sin(u)##. Also, remember that cos is an even function, so you can drop the negative inside your argument!
 
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If w is supposed to be a fixed complex number, you might prefer to rewrite the expression a bit before applying Euler's formula to it. But the statement is certainly true, nothing about Euler's formula requires x to be a real number to begin with.
 
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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