Understanding Complex Numbers and Their Geometric Representation

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the problem of evaluating the expression e^{iz} for the complex number z=1-i and understanding its geometric representation in the complex plane.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the evaluation of e^{iz} and its geometric interpretation, with some questioning how to graph complex numbers in polar form. There is discussion about the representation of complex numbers in the standard graph of the complex plane and the relationship between rectangular and polar forms.

Discussion Status

Participants are actively engaging with the problem, sharing insights on graphing complex numbers and their polar forms. There is a mix of understanding and uncertainty, particularly regarding the implications of the expression e^{i+1} and its geometric meaning.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express confusion about the representation of complex numbers and the transition between different forms, indicating a need for clarification on these concepts. The original poster's intent to visualize the result is noted, but specific details on how to achieve this remain unaddressed.

terbed
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Homework Statement


z=1-i
e^{iz} = ?
I have to solve this problem and than picture it.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


e^{iz} =e^{i(1-i)}=e^{i+1}=e^i*e
I don't really understand how to picture this result. I assume their is an other way, in which the result has a geometric meaning.
 
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Do you know how to graph a point in the polar form ##z = re^{i\theta}##?
 
Yes I know! But there is "i+1" which fustrate. But I know how to graph for example e^i
 
Does the order of resolution matter?

If not, do the graphic first. z will be in the fourth quadrant with coordinates (1, -i)

e^(iz)=e^[i(1-i)]=e.e^i

edit: Think of e as the radius r.
 
Last edited:
In the standard graph of the complex plane, the point (a, b) represents the complex number a+ bi. The complex number i+ 1 (= 1+ i, of course) is represented by the point (1, 1). That strikes me as being easier than e^i!

But it is not difficult to go from one to the other. The distance from (0, 0) to (a, b) is \sqrt{a^2+ b^2} and the angle the line from (0, 0) to (a, b) makes with the x-axis is arctan(b/a). a+ bi is the same as \sqrt{a^2+ b^2}e^{arctan(b/a)}. 1+ i has a= b= 1 so \sqrt{1^2+ 1^2}= \sqrt{2} and arctan(1/1)= \pi/4. 1+ i= \sqrt{2}e^{\pi i/4}.
 
Thanks!
 
Sometimes the simplest, dumbest thing is the correct one.
 
That's always been my plan!
 
HallsofIvy said:
In the standard graph of the complex plane, the point (a, b) represents the complex number a+ bi. The complex number i+ 1 (= 1+ i, of course) is represented by the point (1, 1). That strikes me as being easier than e^i!
Yes, but you're not suggesting it equals e^i are you?
terbed, do you know how to write e^{iθ} in a + ib form? What does that give in this case?
 
  • #10
I don't really know your problem! Yes I can represent it in a+bi form.
 
  • #11
terbed said:
I don't really know your problem! Yes I can represent it in a+bi form.
I thought you were trying to get a handle on what ei looked like, so I expected at some point an answer in a+ib form. But I don't see that anywhere in the thread. What did you get for that?
 

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