Is it possible to avoid using the complex logarithm?

In summary, the conversation discusses solving for the value of z in the equation e^(i*z) = 2 +/- sqrt(3). The expert suggests approaching it as a purely imaginary number and solving using logarithms, with the reminder that the solution will be periodic every 2pi units. The conversation also mentions the use of principal value in solving complex logarithms.
  • #1
aruwin
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Hello.
Can someone please check if I did this correctly. Question and my attempt are as the attached.
 

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  • #2
Looks alright to me, but in future - no pressure, mind, just a suggestion - if you were to take the time to learn a little LaTex and write it so, you'd probably get a faster response on here. General rule of thumb: make it easier for others to read, and you'll get more and quicker replies. (Sun)

All the best!

Gethin :D
 
  • #3
I try to avoid the complex logarithm where possible. Since you know that $\displaystyle \begin{align*} e^{i \,z} = 2 \pm \sqrt{3} \end{align*}$, a real number, that means z must be purely imaginary, and you can solve as you would real numbers, just remembering that your value of z will be periodic every $\displaystyle \begin{align*} 2\pi \end{align*}$ units. So

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} e^{i \,z} &= 2\pm \sqrt{3} \\ i \,z &= \ln{ \left( 2 \pm \sqrt{3} \right) } \\ -z &= i\ln{ \left( 2 \pm \sqrt{3} \right) } \\ z &= -i\ln{ \left( 2 \pm \sqrt{3} \right) } \end{align*}$

and remembering that it is multivalued, that means the complete solution is

$\displaystyle \begin{align*} z = -i\ln{ \left( 2 \pm \sqrt{3} \right) } + 2\pi n \textrm{ where } n \in \mathbf{Z} \end{align*}$
 
  • #4
Prove It said:
I try to avoid the complex logarithm where possible.

That's pretty much my mantra too. But if in Rome, at least go for the principal value... (Coffee)
 

FAQ: Is it possible to avoid using the complex logarithm?

What is a complex logarithm?

A complex logarithm is a mathematical function that maps a complex number to another complex number. It is the inverse function of the complex exponential function and is defined as the solution to the equation z = e^w, where z and w are complex numbers.

How is a complex logarithm different from a real logarithm?

A complex logarithm differs from a real logarithm in that it can take on multiple values for a single input. This is due to the complex nature of the logarithm's argument, which can have infinitely many values that differ by multiples of 2πi.

What are the main properties of the complex logarithm?

The complex logarithm has several important properties, including the fact that it is a multivalued function, meaning it can have multiple outputs for a single input. It also follows the laws of logarithms, such as the product and quotient rules, and has a branch cut along the negative real axis.

What applications does the complex logarithm have?

The complex logarithm has numerous applications in mathematics, physics, and engineering. It is used in complex analysis, number theory, and signal processing, among others. It also has practical applications in fields such as electrical engineering and quantum mechanics.

What are some common misconceptions about the complex logarithm?

One common misconception about the complex logarithm is that it is the same as the natural logarithm. While the natural logarithm is a specific case of the complex logarithm, they are not equivalent. Another misconception is that the complex logarithm is only defined for positive real numbers, when in fact it can be defined for any complex number except for 0.

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