Sign of u and v in a complex variable

Join the discussion
Registration is free. Ask a follow-up in this thread, or start your own.
2 replies · 1K views
Fixxxer125
Messages
40
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement


if z=x+iy and sqrt(z) = u+iv

u=±(1/√2)*√(x+√(x^2+y^2 ))
v=±(1/√2)*√(-x+√(x^2+y^2 ))
How must the signs on these result be chosen?

2. The attempt at a solution
I wondered if it was something to do with ensuring √(z) was always positive, but then ruled this out as it is a complex function. I don't really know where to do with this one! Thanks for your help
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi Fixxxer125! :smile:
Fixxxer125 said:
if z=x+iy and sqrt(z) = u+iv …

Do the obvious …

square the second equation: x + iy = z = (u + iv)2,

then equate real and imaginary parts (separately). :wink:
 
Ah brilliant, thanks!