Solving a Quick Complex Number Question: Finding z in 4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving the equation 4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i, where z is a complex number. Participants explore various methods to isolate z and analyze the relationship between z and its complex conjugate.

Discussion Character

  • Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Some participants suggest rearranging the equation and separating real and imaginary parts. Others question the validity of certain transformations and clarify the relationship between z and its conjugate.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exploration of different approaches to the problem, with some participants providing guidance on how to express z in terms of its real and imaginary components. Multiple interpretations of the equation are being discussed, but no consensus has been reached on a single method.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the importance of accurately addressing the original question and the implications of using the complex conjugate in their reasoning. There is also mention of ensuring clarity in the transformations applied to the equation.

vorcil
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4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i
then z = [solve for this]


I don't know how to re arrange this equation

(5+9i)/4 = z+z(bar)
 
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z+z(bar)=2Re(z)
but written
4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i
is not the same as
(5+9i)/4 = z+z(bar)
but
4(z + z(bar) )= 5 + 9i
is
 
Just write z=a+bi and separate it into real and imaginary parts.
 
lurflurf, I can't see where you are headed with your approach.

lurflurf said:
z+z(bar)=2Re(z)
but written
4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i
is not the same as
(5+9i)/4 = z+z(bar)
but
4(z + z(bar) )= 5 + 9i
is

[tex]4(z+\bar{z})=4z+4\bar{z} \neq 4z+\bar{z}[/tex]

vorcil take Dick's approach. Just remember that [itex]\bar{z}[/itex] is the complex conjugate of z, thus if z=a+ib then [itex]\bar{z}[/itex]=a-ib
 
Mentallic said:
lurflurf, I can't see where you are headed with your approach.



[tex]4(z+\bar{z})=4z+4\bar{z} \neq 4z+\bar{z}[/tex]

vorcil take Dick's approach. Just remember that [itex]\bar{z}[/itex] is the complex conjugate of z, thus if z=a+ib then [itex]\bar{z}[/itex]=a-ib

4z + z(bar) = 5 + 9i

4z(re) + z(bar)(re) = 5
4z + zbar = 5, z(re) = 1 since zbar(re) = z(re)

4z(im) + z(bar)(im) = 9i
4x - x = 9
z(im) = 3i

z = 1 + 3i
checking
4(1+3i) + (1-3i) = 5+9i

is that right?
 
Yes that is correct, except just remember to be sure to re-read the question so you answer exactly what it asked. "solve for z"
So then just at the end write: z=1+3i

Also, just another similar method which you might find simpler and this usually makes a larger variety of questions more simple and easy to understand:

[tex]4z+\bar{z}=5+9i[/tex]

let z=a+ib

[tex]4a+4ib+a-ib=5+9i[/tex]

[tex]5a+3ib\equiv 5+9i[/tex]

Hence,
[tex]5a=5, a=1[/tex]
[tex]3ib=9i, b=3[/tex]

Therefore, [tex]z=1+3i[/tex]
 

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