Math Is Fun Forum

dmackay

Guest

Converting from rectangular to polar

Hi,

I am attempting to convert the expression -2j to polar notation, I am not sure what to do about finding the arctan of y/x,  since x is 0. Should my result be simply 2 + 180 degrees?

dmackay

Guest

Re: Converting from rectangular to polar

Sorry, in my previous post I had asked if the arctan of 2/0 would be 180/0 degrees. I realise that the arctan of a number approaches 90 degrees as the number approaches infinity. As a result, would the polar representation of -2j be 2 - 90degrees?

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: Converting from rectangular to polar

Hi;

2 - π/2 is what maple is getting. That is the same as yours when converted to degrees.

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In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.

dmackay

Guest

Re: Converting from rectangular to polar

Great, thank you.

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: Converting from rectangular to polar

Hi dmackay;

Welcome to the forum! Hope it is correct, vectors confuse the heck out of me.

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In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.