MHB Sum of two inverse tangent functions

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The discussion focuses on proving that the sum of two inverse tangent functions, specifically $$\tan^{-1}\frac{1}{2} + \tan^{-1}\frac{1}{3}$$, equals $$\frac{\pi}{4}$$ by utilizing the product of complex numbers. The calculation involves manipulating the complex number product $$z = (2+i)(3+i)$$ to derive the desired result. The proof demonstrates an efficient approach to combining inverse tangent values through complex number representation. This method highlights the relationship between complex numbers and trigonometric functions. The conclusion confirms the validity of the equation, showcasing the elegance of mathematical relationships.
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By considering the product of complex numbers:

$$z = (2+i)(3+i)$$

Show that

$$\tan^{-1}\frac{1}{2} + \tan^{-1}\frac{1}{3} = \frac{\pi}{4}$$
 
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$$(2+i)(3+i) = 5+5i = \sqrt{50}e^{i \arctan (1)} = \sqrt{50}e^{i \frac{\pi}{4}}$$

$$ (2+i)(3+i) = \sqrt{5} e^{i \arctan (\frac{1}{2})} \sqrt{10} e^{i \arctan (\frac{1}{3})} = \sqrt{50} e^{i [\arctan (\frac{1}{2}) + i \arctan(\frac{1}{3})]}$$

Therefore,

$$ \frac{\pi}{4} = \arctan \left( \frac{1}{2}\right) + \arctan \left(\frac{1}{3} \right)$$
 
Random Variable said:
$$(2+i)(3+i) = 5+5i = \sqrt{50}e^{i \arctan (1)} = \sqrt{50}e^{i \frac{\pi}{4}}$$

$$ (2+i)(3+i) = \sqrt{5} e^{i \arctan (\frac{1}{2})} \sqrt{10} e^{i \arctan (\frac{1}{3})} = \sqrt{50} e^{i [\arctan (\frac{1}{2}) + i \arctan(\frac{1}{3})]}$$

Therefore,

$$ \frac{\pi}{4} = \arctan \left( \frac{1}{2}\right) + \arctan \left(\frac{1}{3} \right)$$

Very efficient! But then, I'd expect nothing less from you. (Yes)
 
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