Solving a polynomial with complex coefficients

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The discussion revolves around solving the polynomial equation z^6 + (2i-1)z^3 - 1 - i = 0 by substituting k = z^3 to form a quadratic. Participants emphasize the need to simplify the quadratic, particularly focusing on the square root of the complex number (-8i + 1). Suggestions include using polar form and Euler's formula to facilitate finding the square root. There is also a correction regarding the representation of real and imaginary parts of complex numbers, clarifying that the imaginary unit 'i' should not be included in the imaginary part. The conversation highlights common challenges in handling complex coefficients in polynomial equations.
astrololo
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Homework Statement


z^6+(2i-1)z^3-1-i=0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that I must put k=z^3 and solve the quadratic. But I'm not able to simplify the quadratic. I get the square root of (-8i+1)

What am I supposed to do ?
 
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astrololo said:

Homework Statement


z^6+(2i-1)z^3-1-i=0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that I must put k=z^3 and solve the quadratic. But I'm not able to simplify the quadratic. I get the square root of (-8i+1)

What am I supposed to do ?
The square root of (1-8i) is, wait for it, another complex number!

If you know how to express (1-8i) in polar form using Euler's formula, then finding the square root should be a snap.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Complex_number
 
astrololo said:

Homework Statement


z^6+(2i-1)z^3-1-i=0

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I know that I must put k=z^3 and solve the quadratic. But I'm not able to simplify the quadratic. I get the square root of (-8i+1)

What am I supposed to do ?
Check that result from quadratic formula again.

I get something much simpler under the square root.
 
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Likes krebs and Student100
FWIW, given any complex number z, then assume √z = a+bi and so z = (a+bi)² which means that Real(z²) = a²-b² and Im(z²) = 2abi; two equations, two unknowns. simple to solve, i hope.
 
ogg, I think you meant to write:
Re##(z)=a^2-b^2## and Im##(z)=2ab##
 
Ian Taylor said:
ogg, I think you meant to write:
Re##(z)=a^2-b^2## and Im##(z)=2ab##
Right. The imaginary part doesn't include the imaginary unit, i , by the usual convention.

Hello, Ian Taylor. Welcome to PF !

If you notice, this thread is 1/2 year old.
 
SammyS said:
Right. The imaginary part doesn't include the imaginary unit, i , by the usual convention.

Hello, Ian Taylor. Welcome to PF !

If you notice, this thread is 1/2 year old.
Thanks SammyS. He had also written ##z^2## rather than ##z##. which contradicts his original definition.
 

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