Real parameter given complex variable modulus

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The discussion revolves around finding a real parameter, t, for the complex number z defined as z = (t-i)/(t+i) with the condition |z| = 1. The user attempts to express z in terms of real components a and b, leading to the equation a^2 + b^2 = 1. They successfully rewrite (t-i)/(t+i) but encounter difficulties, resulting in either tautological equations or expressions for t that are imaginary. The solution involves separating the real and imaginary parts and ensuring that the derived expressions satisfy the modulus condition. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in isolating the real parameter while adhering to the constraints of complex numbers.
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Homework Statement


Suppose z is complex number with |z| = 1 (also assume that z is not 1 + 0*i)
Let z = a + b*i where a and b are real numbers.

Find a real parameter, t, such that

z = (t-i)/(t+i), where i = sqrt(-1)


Homework Equations




|z| = sqrt(a^2+b^2)



The Attempt at a Solution


Since we are given |z| = 1, this implies that a^2 + b^2 = (a+b*i)*(a-b*i) = 1.
Also, (t-i)/(t+i) can be expressed as [1/(t^2+1)]*[(t^2-1)+(-2*t)*i].

Despite my efforts, I end up at two deadends: I reduce an equation to a tautology like 0 = 0 or I reduce to an expression for t that involves i (thereby making t imaginary instead of real).

Any help is greatly appreciated.
 
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First off find c(t),d(t) such that:
<br /> c(t)+d(t)i=\frac{t-i}{t+i} <br />
Then use the fact that c(t)^{2}+d(t)^{2}=1
 
jubbles said:

The Attempt at a Solution


Since we are given |z| = 1, this implies that a^2 + b^2 = (a+b*i)*(a-b*i) = 1.
Also, (t-i)/(t+i) can be expressed as [1/(t^2+1)]*[(t^2-1)+(-2*t)*i].

Despite my efforts, I end up at two deadends: I reduce an equation to a tautology like 0 = 0 or I reduce to an expression for t that involves i (thereby making t imaginary instead of real).

Any help is greatly appreciated.

Write

\frac{1}{t^2+1}\,\left[(t^2-1)+(-2t)i\right]

as

\frac{(t^2-1)}{t^2+1}-\frac{2t}{t^2+1}\,i\right]
 
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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