Simple Complex Number Review Question

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To calculate z^2 for z = 1 + e^(iθ), the expansion results in z^2 = 1 + 2e^(iθ) + e^(i2θ), which is correct but can be simplified further using trigonometric identities. For |z|^2, the expression simplifies to |z|^2 = 2z, where z is expressed as 1 + e^(iθ). The discussion highlights confusion regarding the presence of imaginary components in the final answers, as the book suggests they should not appear. The key clarification involves recognizing that e^(iθ) and e^(-iθ) can be combined to eliminate the imaginary part, leading to a real result. Properly expressing the sum of these exponentials in terms of sines and cosines resolves the issue.
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Homework Statement


z=1 + e^(iθ) calculate z^2 and lzl^2



Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



for z^2

(1+e^(iθ))(1+e^(iθ)) = 1 + 2e^(iθ) + e^(i2θ).. is that the final answer? i expanded it into cosines and sines as well but that doesn't simplify anymore i don't believe.

for lzl^2 = (1+e^(iθ))*(1+e^(-iθ))= 1 + e^(iθ) + e^(iθ) + e^0 = 2 + 2e^(iθ) = 2(1+e^(iθ)) = 2z

but did I do something wrong because the book says the final answer should not have an imaginary number in it? but z has e^(iθ) in it? thanks for the help
 
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bmb2009 said:

Homework Statement


z=1 + e^(iθ) calculate z^2 and lzl^2

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution



for z^2

(1+e^(iθ))(1+e^(iθ)) = 1 + 2e^(iθ) + e^(i2θ).. is that the final answer? i expanded it into cosines and sines as well but that doesn't simplify anymore i don't believe.

for lzl^2 = (1+e^(iθ))*(1+e^(-iθ))= 1 + e^(iθ) + e^(iθ) + e^0 = 2 + 2e^(iθ) = 2(1+e^(iθ)) = 2z

but did I do something wrong because the book says the final answer should not have an imaginary number in it? but z has e^(iθ) in it? thanks for the help

It doesn't have just an e^(iθ) in it. It should also have an e^(-iθ). Check your expansion. Put them together and the result is not imaginary.
 
Do you mind showing me the e^(-i@) + e^(-i@) cancellation?
 
Do u mind showing me the cancellation written on?
 
bmb2009 said:
Do you mind showing me the e^(-i@) + e^(-i@) cancellation?

Express the sum e^(iθ)+e^(-iθ) (which is what you should have had in your expansion) in terms of sines and cosines.
 
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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