What is the purpose of <-i> in a complex number subgroup?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around understanding the subgroup generated by the complex number -i within the context of the group ({1,-1,i,-i},X). Participants explore the properties of complex numbers and their subgroups, including calculations involving powers of -i and the implications of these calculations for subgroup generation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses confusion about the subgroup generated by -i and seeks clarification on how to work with it.
  • Another participant suggests that the original poster clarify their terminology regarding mathematical notation.
  • Calculations involving powers of -i are proposed, with one participant noting that -i can be expressed as i^3.
  • Participants discuss the multiplication rule for complex numbers and its relevance to understanding -i.
  • There is a mention of the difficulty in managing signs while working with subgroups generated by the group.
  • One participant successfully works out the subgroup generated by -i but then seeks to communicate via email for further questions, which raises a discussion about forum policies on private messaging.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the understanding of -i and its subgroup generation, as some express confusion while others provide calculations and insights. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the best approach to clarify the properties of -i.

Contextual Notes

Some participants indicate a lack of familiarity with LaTeX, which may limit their ability to communicate mathematical ideas effectively in the forum.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in group theory, complex numbers, and subgroup generation may find this discussion relevant, particularly those seeking clarification on mathematical notation and subgroup properties.

foreverdream
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Well I generally haven an idea about subgroup of a group and generators. But I fail to understand following:
({1,-1,i,-i},X)
I can see
<1>={1}
<-1>={-1,1}
<i>={i,-1,-i,1}
But simply have no idea about <-i>
How can you work with -i?
 
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You would get more responses if you could explain your terminology. < >, { , , , }, etc.
 
Calculate [itex]-i[/itex], [itex](-i)^2[/itex], [itex](-i)^3[/itex], and so on...
 
Yes but that's what I don't know how to because -i is imagery number that's is - sq rt of 1? Isn't it ?
 
foreverdream said:
Yes but that's what I don't know how to because -i is imagery number that's is - sq rt of 1? Isn't it ?

The multiplication rule for complex numbers is clear:

[tex](a+bi)(c+di)=(ac-bd)+(bc+ad)i[/tex]

by definition.
 
Ok i will try and see if I nail this. Will get back to you thanks foe guiding
 
Not much luck. Basically I need to work out subgroups generated by this group and I am going all mad in sign area
 
foreverdream said:
Not much luck. Basically I need to work out subgroups generated by this group and I am going all mad in sign area

you already know that -i = i3, right?

and you already know that i4 = 1 as well, correct?

so (-i)2 = (i3)2 = i6 = (i4)(i2) = i2 = -1.

now try to deduce what (-i)3 and (-i)4 should be.
 
Oh I worked it out thanks. But I have another question. I would like to attached a typed word doc it's easy then typing all Maths. Do you have e mail I can talk to you directly ? If u don't mind.
 
  • #10
foreverdream said:
Oh I worked it out thanks. But I have another question. I would like to attached a typed word doc it's easy then typing all Maths. Do you have e mail I can talk to you directly ? If u don't mind.

my policy (i can't speak for other forum members), is to respond to the first private message in order to request that people ask their questions on the forum. if someone persists, i block them.

i don't mean to be harsh, but that's the way i do things. if you want to post an image file, there are ways to do that on these forums (use the "Advanced" tab when posting, and be sure to preview your post to make sure you have done so correctly).

"math typing" is handled on these forums through Latex. there is a stickied guide to Latex HERE:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=546968
 
  • #11
Deveno said:
my policy (i can't speak for other forum members), is to respond to the first private message in order to request that people ask their questions on the forum. if someone persists, i block them.

It's ok to report people who bother you. The behaviour is unacceptable.

To the OP: you can attach the word document in a post if you want.
 
  • #12
I am fairly new so I didn't mean to bother anyone. If that's how this comes across apologies. I have not used latex so thought sending file will be quicker. That's all.
 

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