Cartesian and polar forms encode algebra and geometry
Objective: Why can the theorem in “Cartesian and polar forms encode algebra and geometry” not be reused blindly in this nearby case: Argument is multivalued globally; writing arg z as one continuous function around the origin requires a branch cut. Name the first failed hypothesis.
A complex number z=x+iy is a point/vector in R² with multiplication that adds angles and multiplies magnitudes.
Objects and notation: For z=x+iy, conjugate z̄=x−iy, modulus |z|=√(x²+y²), and nonzero z=re^{iθ} with θ defined modulo 2π. The result to establish is: |zw|=|z||w| and arguments add modulo 2π; z^{-1}=z̄/|z|² for z≠0. Read every formula on its stated domain and branch, and retain contour orientation and singularities.
The worked question is: Write −1+i√3 in polar form with principal angle. Start by “Modulus is √(1+3)=2.” and finish by “Thus z=2e^{2πi/3}; all arguments are 2π/3+2πk.” Then compare the answer with this nearby failure: Argument is multivalued globally; writing arg z as one continuous function around the origin requires a branch cut.
|zw|=|z||w| and arguments add modulo 2π; z^{-1}=z̄/|z|² for z≠0.
Expand zw and compute its squared modulus.
Factor (x²+y²)(u²+v²).
Use Euler form to identify angle addition and inverse.
Write −1+i√3 in polar form with principal angle.
- Modulus is √(1+3)=2.
- The point lies in quadrant II with angle 2π/3.
- Thus z=2e^{2πi/3}; all arguments are 2π/3+2πk.
Result: The principal polar form is 2e^{2πi/3}.