Using complex numbers to solve for a current in this circuit

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around solving a circuit equation involving complex numbers, specifically the expression [50/(4+j3)(50)+100] x 150. Participants are attempting to clarify the manipulation of complex numbers in the context of electrical current calculations.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants express confusion about the manipulation of the complex number 4+j3, with one participant calculating its magnitude as 5 but not recognizing that this does not equate to the complex number itself.
  • There is a discussion about the correct interpretation of the original equation, with multiple interpretations proposed regarding the placement of parentheses and the structure of the expression.
  • Several participants suggest using the complex conjugate to simplify the expression involving the complex number, indicating a standard method for handling such calculations.
  • Some participants assert that the final answer should be a complex number, specifically 20-10j, while others challenge the calculations leading to this conclusion.
  • One participant notes the importance of clarity in mathematical expressions to avoid ambiguity in calculations.
  • There are repeated requests for clarification on how to derive the answer, with some participants expressing limited experience with complex numbers.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the correct interpretation of the equation or the calculations leading to the final answer. Multiple competing views remain regarding the manipulation of complex numbers and the structure of the original expression.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight the ambiguity in the original mathematical expression, noting that the lack of clear parentheses leads to confusion in interpretation and calculation. There is also a recognition that some participants may need to improve their understanding of complex numbers.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for students learning about complex numbers in electrical engineering or physics, particularly those who are encountering these concepts for the first time and seeking clarification on their application in circuit analysis.

  • #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:
$$\bigg [\frac{50}{(4 + j3)(50) + 100} \bigg ] \times 150 = \frac{150}{(4 + j3) + 2}= \frac{50}{2+ j} = \frac{(50)(2 - j)}{5} = 20 - j10 $$
 
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  • #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:
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  • #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.
 
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  • #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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