Finding Solutions for a Quadratic Equation with Complex Numbers

In summary, the equation z^2-2z+i=0 has two solutions: 1+sqrt(1-i) and 1-sqrt(1-i). These solutions were obtained by using the quadratic formula and simplifying the expression. Another approach was also shown by rewriting the equation as (z-1)^2-1+i=0.
  • #1
ihumayun
12
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Homework Statement



Solve the following equation for Z, find all solutions.

z2 -2z + i = 0

Homework Equations



[-b(+/-) sqrt(b2-4ac)]/2a


The Attempt at a Solution



Using the equation above,

z = [2 (+/-) sqrt( (-2)2 - 4 (1) (i)) ]/ 2(1)

=[2 (+/-) sqrt ( 4 - 4i)]/2

= [2 (+/-) sqrt ( (4) (1-i)]/2

= [2 (+/-) sqrt(4) sqrt(1-i)]/2

= [2 (+/-) 2 sqrt(1-i)]/2

= 1 (+/-) sqrt (1-i)

which means the roots are 1+ sqrt(1-i) and 1- sqrt(1-i). This is the answer that I have entered into my online assignment, but it is being marked as incorrect. Do I have an error in my calculations, or can the answer can be simplified further?
 
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  • #2
Original problem:

[tex]z^2-2z+i=0[/tex]

Check of your solution:

[tex]z_{1,2}=\frac{2 \pm \sqrt{4-4i}}{2}[/tex]

[tex]z_{1,2}=\frac{2 \pm 2\sqrt{1-i}}{2}[/tex]

[tex]z_{1,2}=1 \pm \sqrt{1-i}[/tex]

Another approach:

[tex](z-1)^2-1+i=0[/tex]

[tex](z-1)^2=1-i[/tex]

[tex]z-1=\pm \sqrt{1-i}[/tex]

[tex]z = 1 \pm \sqrt{1-i}[/tex]
 
  • #3
So I have it right then. I guess the site is being picky with the answer format or something. Thank you!
 

FAQ: Finding Solutions for a Quadratic Equation with Complex Numbers

What is a quadratic equation?

A quadratic equation is a polynomial equation of the form ax^2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b, and c are constants and x is the variable. It is a second-degree equation, which means the highest exponent of x is 2.

How do I solve a quadratic equation?

There are several methods for solving a quadratic equation, including factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula. The most commonly used method is the quadratic formula, which is x = (-b ± √(b^2 - 4ac)) / 2a.

What are the solutions to a quadratic equation?

A quadratic equation can have two solutions, one solution, or no solutions. The number of solutions depends on the discriminant, b^2 - 4ac. If the discriminant is positive, there are two real solutions. If it is zero, there is one real solution. If it is negative, there are no real solutions, but there may be two complex solutions.

Can a quadratic equation have imaginary solutions?

Yes, a quadratic equation can have two complex solutions if the discriminant is negative. These solutions will be in the form of a+bi, where a and b are real numbers and i is the imaginary unit (√-1).

Why do we need to solve quadratic equations?

Quadratic equations are useful in solving real-world problems involving quantities that are related to each other by a quadratic relationship. They are also important in various fields of science, such as physics, engineering, and economics. Additionally, solving quadratic equations helps improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

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