Use De Moivre's Theorem to show that if z = cos(q)+isin(q), then (z^n)+(z^-n) = 2cos(nq) and (z^n)-(z^-n)=2isin(nq).

De Moivre's Theorem states that if z = cos(q)+isin(q), then

zn = (cos(q)+isin(q))n = cos(nq)+isin(nq)

But then 

z-n = cos(-nq)+isin(-nq).

Now, cos(-p)=cos(p), as cosine is a symmetric (even) function, and sin(-p)=-sin(p), as sine is an anti-symmetric (odd) fuction. Thus,

z-n  = cos(nq)-isin(nq).

The rest is just algebra:

zn+z-n = [cos(nq)+isin(nq)]+[cos(nq)-isin(nq)] = 2cos(nq).

zn-z-n = [cos(nq)+isin(nq)]-[cos(nq)-isin(nq)] = 2isin(nq).

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

A complex number z has argument θ and modulus 1. Show that (z^n)-(z^-n)=2iSin(nθ).


find all the roots to the equation: z^3 = 1 + i in polar form


Explain why the equation tanx + cotx = 1 does not have real solutions.


A curve has equation y=(2-x)(1+x)+3, A line passes through the point (2,3) and the curve at a point with x coordinate 2+h. Find the gradient of the line. Then use that answer to find the gradient of the curve at (2,3), stating the value of the gradient


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy