Show that tanh(z/2) = (sinhx+isiny)/(coshx+cosy) Arfken book

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around proving the identity ##\tanh(z/2) = \dfrac{\sinh x+i\sin y}{\cosh x+\cos y}##, where ##z## is a complex number expressed as ##z=x+iy##. The problem involves hyperbolic and trigonometric functions in a complex context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the definition of complex hyperbolic functions and question the missing information necessary for a complete understanding. Some suggest starting from the definition of ##\tanh(u)## and manipulating it with complex exponentials. Others mention the need to eliminate the complex term in the denominator through algebraic manipulation.

Discussion Status

There are various approaches being explored, including starting from definitions and using algebraic tricks. Some participants express confusion about the initial setup and the requirements for a proper attempt, while others provide guidance on how to proceed with the algebraic manipulation.

Contextual Notes

Some participants note that the original poster's lack of detailed attempts may hinder the ability to provide effective help. There is also mention of guidelines that emphasize the need for clearer exposition of attempts.

Felipe Lincoln
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Homework Statement


Show that ##\tanh(z/2) = \dfrac{\sinh x+i\sin y}{\cosh x+\cos y}##

Homework Equations


Not clear what I'm supposed to use

The Attempt at a Solution


Tried using the relation of sin and cosine with ##e^{iz}##, and also worked with the expanded ##\sin(x+iy)## and cosine as well but I'm still stuck.
 
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The answer has an imaginary part only in the numerator, while the left side of the equation that you start with will have a complex term in the denominator. There is a trick to getting rid of a complex term in the denominator. Hopefully this is helpful.
 
Felipe Lincoln said:

Homework Statement


Show that ##\tanh(z/2) = \dfrac{\sinh x+i\sin y}{\cosh x+\cos y}##

Homework Equations


Not clear what I'm supposed to use

The Attempt at a Solution


Tried using the relation of sin and cosine with ##e^{iz}##, and also worked with the expanded ##\sin(x+iy)## and cosine as well but I'm still stuck.

Please read the "Guidelines".

You will see that your statements that you do not know what you are supposed to use, and that you are stuck (but with no explanation) are not considered as a proper attempt, and are thus against the PF rules. You need to show your work, and in enough detail that helpers can tell how to give appropriate hints.
 
start from the definition of ##\tanh(u)=\frac{e^{2u}-1}{e^{2u}+1}## plug in ##u=z/2## and then plug in ##z=x+iy##, then use ##e^{iy}=\cos y+i\sin y## and then do a trick that @Charles Link mention to get rid of the imaginary part in the denominator, that is you ll have to multiply both the numerator and the denominator, by the complex conjugate of the denominator. Then you ll have to work out the algebra. Might have to use some trigonometry identities as well..
 
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Delta² said:
start from the definition of ##\tanh(u)=\frac{e^{2u}-1}{e^{2u}+1}## plug in ##u=z/2## and then plug in ##z=x+iy##, then use ##e^{iy}=\cos y+i\sin y## and then do a trick that @Charles Link mention to get rid of the imaginary part in the denominator, that is you ll have to multiply both the numerator and the denominator, by the complex conjugate of the denominator. Then you ll have to work out the algebra. Might have to use some trigonometry identities as well..
A more intuitive starting point is
##\tanh u=\frac{\sinh u}{\cosh u}=\frac{(e^u-e^{-u})/2}{(e^u+e^{-u})/2}.##
Then, multiply by ##1=\frac{e^u}{e^u}## to get your "definition".
 
robphy said:
A more intuitive starting point is
##\tanh u=\frac{\sinh u}{\cosh u}=\frac{(e^u-e^{-u})/2}{(e^u+e^{-u})/2}.##
Then, multiply by ##1=\frac{e^u}{e^u}## to get your "definition".
Ultimately , you are right, the strict definition of ##\tanh u## is as you say .
 

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