Show that i^i = e^(-pi/2).

This question is very similar to differentiating x^x and the method for tackling it is quite common when powers are involved. We want to show that i^i=e^(-pi/2). Start by writing z=i^i (act like we do not know what i^i is yet). A number raised to power of i is very strange. So take logarithms on both sides:z=i^i --> ln(z)=ln(i^i)=iln(i) using properties of logarithms.Now we have to figure out what ln(i) is. Recalling Euler's identity e^ix=cos(x)+isin(x) we remember that i=e^(ipi/2). ln is the inverse of exponential so it makes sense that ln(i)=ln(e^(ipi/2))=ipi/2. So ln(z)=i*(i*pi/2)=-pi/2. So z=e^(-pi/2). Thus i^i=e^(-pi/2).

JP
Answered by John P. STEP tutor

7501 Views

See similar STEP University tutors

Related STEP University answers

All answers ▸

Suppose that 3=2/x(1)=x(1)+(2/x(2))=x(2)+(2/x(3))=x(3)+(2/x(4))+...Guess an expression, in terms of n, for x(n). Then, by induction or otherwise, prove the correctness of your guess.


Find 100 consecutive natural numbers, each of which is composite


Show that if a polynomial with integer coefficients has a rational root, then the rational root must be an integer. Hence, show that x^n-5x+7=0 has no rational roots.


Let y=arcsin(x)/sqrt(1-x^2). Show that (1-x^2) y'-xy-1=0, and prove that, for all integers n>=0, (1-x^2)y^{n+2}-(2n+3)xy^{n+1} -(n+1)^2 y^{n}=0. (Superscripts denote repeated differentiation)


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