Solving Complex Equations: Find x+yi & arg(z+2i)=π/4

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around solving complex equations involving the modulus and argument of complex numbers. The original poster seeks to find complex numbers defined by the equations |z^2 - 1| = |z|^2 and arg(z + 2i) = π/4.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to substitute z with x + yi but encounters a fourth-order equation, leading to questions about the validity of this approach. Some participants suggest considering the geometric interpretation of the problem and emphasize the importance of the two-valued nature of square roots in complex analysis.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively discussing the implications of the modulus and the correct interpretation of the equations. There is a focus on clarifying the definitions and the steps needed to manipulate the equations without substituting z. Some participants express confusion about the guidance provided and seek clearer explanations.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of time constraints related to solving the equations, as well as the challenge of dealing with higher-degree equations in an exam setting. The discussion reflects a lack of consensus on the best approach to take, with multiple interpretations being explored.

pinsky
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Homework Statement



Find all the complex numbers defined with:

\left | z^2 - 1 \right | = \left | z \right |^2
arg(z+2i) = \pi / 4

Homework Equations



z=x + yi

agr(z)=ArcTg(y/x)

The Attempt at a Solution



I've changed z with x+yi but it turned out to be a forth order equation to get solutions for y. So I'm guessing that isn't the right way.

Any hints?
 
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For the first of these if you got a 4th deg equation it looks like you have forgotten about the square root that appears in the definition of modulus.

You must not forget either the two-valued nature of a square root!

You don't even need to "change z with x+yi".

It will also help you make sense if you think about these problems geometrically, even if you do not do your calculations that way. Either before or after the calculation think of the simple geometry.
 
Damn, I've falsely written the first equation.
It should go

<br /> \left | z^2 - 1 \right | = \left | z \right |^2 -4<br />

Sorrym, i haven't really understood your tip.
Could you repeat that more clearly please?
 
pinsky said:
Write the definition of |anything|.

From that write out the equations without the || that you can get from

<br /> \left | z^2 - 1 \right | = \left | z \right |^2 -4<br />

Without changing the z into anything else.
 
I'm not following again.

\left |z| = \sqrt{z\bar{z}}

Is that the definition of a module without writing z as x+yi?

I supose i can remove the module from |z|2. But what do i get then?

<br /> <br /> \left | z^2 - 1 \right | = z^2 -4<br /> <br />
 
pinsky said:
I'm not following again.

\left |z| = \sqrt{z\bar{z}}

Is that the definition of a module without writing z as x+yi?

I supose i can remove the module from |z|2. But what do i get then?

<br /> <br /> \left | z^2 - 1 \right | = z^2 -4<br /> <br />

|z| = sqrt(x^2 + y^2)

use this to rewrite your equations in terms of x and y.
 
If i take the solution in that way, i get a forth order equation. That isn't something that is solvable in the time the exam lasts.
 
pinsky said:
If i take the solution in that way, i get a forth order equation. That isn't something that is solvable in the time the exam lasts.

Well I don't see another easy way to do it, other than guessing... and guessing often doesn't work.
 
epenguin said:
For the first of these if you got a 4th deg equation it looks like you have forgotten about the square root that appears in the definition of modulus.

You must not forget either the two-valued nature of a square root!

You don't even need to "change z with x+yi".

Do you understand what epenguin suggests?
 
  • #10
pinsky said:
I supose i can remove the module from |z|2. But what do i get then?

<br /> <br /> \left | z^2 - 1 \right | = z^2 -4<br /> <br />

Now carefully remove the module from the other side!

(I frankly don't know how it occurs to you to do it on one side and doesn't on the other, but still.)

If the result doesn't make sense to you, see my first post.
 

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