How do I multiply complex numbers?

A complex number has the form a+bi. We call a the 'real' bit (ie. the bit on a regular number line) and b is the 'imaginary bit. 
Multiplying complex numbers is done in a very similar way to multiplying out brackets. However, you need to remember that i2 = -1.
For example: what is (6+i) x (5+2i)?
We multiply out the brackets, and get: 6x5 + 6x2i + ix5 +ix2i
This gives 30 + 12i + 5i - 2 (because i2=-1).
Collecting like terms we get 28+17i which is our answer.

CB

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

By using partial fractions, integrate the function: f(x) = (4-2x)/(2x+1)(x+1)(x+3)


At t seconds, the temp. of the water is θ°C. The rate of increase of the temp. of the water at any time t is modelled by the D.E. dθ/dt=λ(120-θ), θ<=100 where λ is a pos. const. Given θ=20 at t=0, solve this D.E. to show that θ=120-100e^(-λt)


Why, how and when do we use partial fractions and polynomial long division?


Differentiate "sin(2x)"