Using complex numbers to solve for a current in this circuit

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The discussion focuses on solving a circuit equation involving complex numbers, specifically the expression [50/(4+j3)(50)+100] x 150. The original poster attempts to simplify the complex number 4+j3, mistakenly equating its magnitude to the entire expression. Participants emphasize the importance of using parentheses for clarity in mathematical expressions and suggest using the complex conjugate to manipulate the equation correctly. Ultimately, the correct answer is identified as 20 - 10j, highlighting the necessity of understanding complex numbers for accurate calculations. The conversation underscores the need for clear communication in mathematical problems to avoid confusion.
  • #31
This was not a homework assignment, it's not necessary to understand the equation for this course, I was just interested in how they derived their answer.
 
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  • #32
GJ1 said:
This was not a homework assignment, it's not necessary to understand the equation for this course, I was just interested in how they derived their answer.
I should have said that we are only supposed to give hints and directions in a homework type of question. I think you should give it another try using the hint in my post #30 above.
 
  • #33
Babadag said:
50/[(4+3j)x50+100]x150=20-10j
Although you have parentheses and brackets in your work, you don't have enough of them.

50/[(4+3j)x50+100]x150 means this:
$$\frac{50}{(4 + 3j) \cdot 50 + 100} \cdot 150$$
The above equals $$\frac {7500}{(4 + 3j) \cdot 50 + 100}$$
and does not equal 20 - 10j.
 
  • #34
Mark44 said:
50/[(4+3j)x50+100]x150 means this:
$$\frac{50}{(4 + 3j) \cdot 50 + 100} \cdot 150$$
The above equals $$\frac {7500}{(4 + 3j) \cdot 50 + 100}$$
and does not equal 20 - 10j.
And yet:
$$\bigg [\frac{50}{(4 + j3)(50) + 100} \bigg ] \times 150 = \frac{150}{(4 + j3) + 2}= \frac{50}{2+ j} = \frac{(50)(2 - j)}{5} = 20 - j10 $$
 
  • #35
Can you just explain how you get 50/2+j from 150/(4+j)+2
 
  • #36
GJ1 said:
Can you just explain how you get 50/2+j from 150/(4+j)+2
He doesn't. He gets 50/(2+j) from 150/( (4+j3)+2 ).
Please use parenthesis to make your math expressions clear.

This is not just a picky complaint. In these days of computers and calculators, they will always give you the wrong answer if the parenthesis are wrong.
 
Last edited:
  • #37
Just got it. Thanks for explaining it with your example. Greatly appreciated!!!!!
 
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  • #38
PeroK said:
And yet:
$$\bigg [\frac{50}{(4 + j3)(50) + 100} \bigg ] \times 150 = \frac{150}{(4 + j3) + 2}= \frac{50}{2+ j} = \frac{(50)(2 - j)}{5} = 20 - j10 $$
I stand corrected.
 
  • #39
FactChecker said:
He doesn't. He gets 50/(2+j) from 150/( (4+j3)+2 ).
Please use parenthesis to make your math expressions clear.

This is not just a picky complaint. In these days of computers and calculators, they will always give you the wrong answer if the parenthesis are wrong.
Understood
 
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  • #40
Mark44 said:
I stand corrected.
And now the OP has what he wanted. A solution on a plate!
 
  • #41
PeroK said:
And now the OP has what he wanted. A solution on a plate!
Right. But it won't go very far unless the OP has learned from this thread. Still, we should be careful to not give in to frustration and just give the answer.
 
  • #42
FactChecker said:
Right. But it won't go very far unless the OP has learned from this thread.
We could give them a similar complex number manipulation question to test their understanding. Any volunteers? :smile:
 
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  • #43
GJ1 said:
It's (50/(4+j3)(50)
Those parentheses do not match up. You are missing a "closing paren" somewhere. I'm having a little trouble guessing what the 50 over (4+j3) represents. What about the second 50? Some units would be nice.
 

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