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

28231 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How can we solve a limit having an indetermination of the type 0/0 or infinity divided by infinity?


Solve the differential equations dx/dt=2x+y+1 and dy/dt=4x-y+1 given that when t=0 x=20 and y=60. (A2 Further pure)


Differentiate artanh(x) with respect to x


Find the reflection of point P(2,4,-6) in the plane x-2y+z=6


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning