Find the square root of complex number 3 + 4i

Strategy: write down an equation satisfied by the square root, and solve it algebraically.  Method:  square root x+iy  satisfies (x+iy)2 = 3 + 4i. Expand: x2-y2 +2xyi = 3+4i. Comparing coefficients gives:   x2-y2 =3 and 2xy =4. Then substitute y:  x2 -4/x2 = 3. Rearrange to get quadratic in x2 : (x+1)(x2 -4) = 0. x can't be imaginary (by definition) so x= +/- 2. Plug in to equation 2xy = 4, get y = +/- 1. So square root is +/- (2+i).

JS
Answered by Jakob S. Further Mathematics tutor

27730 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is De Moivre's theorem?


Given a curve with parametric equations, x=acos^3(t) and y=asin^3(t), find the length of the curve between points A and B, where t=0 and t=2pi respectively.


Find all the cube roots of 1


Show that the points on an Argand diagram that represent the roots of ((z+1)/z)^6 = 1 lie on a straight line.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning