Solving a polynomial with complex coefficients

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on solving the polynomial equation z6 + (2i - 1)z3 - 1 - i = 0, specifically focusing on simplifying the quadratic form obtained by substituting k = z3. Participants emphasize the importance of expressing complex numbers in polar form using Euler's formula to facilitate finding square roots, particularly for the expression √(1 - 8i). The conversation also highlights the need to correctly apply the quadratic formula and clarify the definitions of real and imaginary components in complex numbers.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of polynomial equations and their roots
  • Familiarity with complex numbers and their properties
  • Knowledge of Euler's formula for complex exponentiation
  • Proficiency in using the quadratic formula for solving equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to express complex numbers in polar form using Euler's formula
  • Study the quadratic formula application in complex number contexts
  • Explore methods for simplifying square roots of complex numbers
  • Investigate the properties of complex conjugates and their applications
USEFUL FOR

Students studying complex analysis, mathematicians solving polynomial equations, and anyone interested in advanced algebraic techniques involving complex coefficients.

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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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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