Prove De Moivre's by induction for the positive integers

First we check the formula for our first case, n=1 where (cosx + isinx)n =cosnx + isinnx (cosx + isinx)1 = cos(1x) + isin(1x) - holds true for n=1 next we assume true for our case n=k(cosx + isinx)k = coskx + isinkxnext we show that if the case for n=k is true, then the case n=k+1 is true.by inputting n=k+1 we get (cosx+isinx)(k+1)=(cosx+isinx)(cosx+isinx)know as we assumed for n=k ,this equals (cosx+isinx)(coskx+isinkx)this gives cosxcoskx +icosxsinkx +isinxcoskx -sinxsinkxsimplifying to (coskxcosx -sinxsinkx) + i(cosxsinkx + sinxcoskx)finally through the compound angle formulae we reach our desired result: (cosx+isinx)k+1 = cos((k+1)x) + isin((k+1)x) conclusion: If n=k holds true, then n=k+1 holds true. Since n=1 holds true we have now shown that De Moivre's theorem holds true for all positive integers.

HS
Answered by Harry S. Further Mathematics tutor

4054 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

How to multiply and divide by complex numbers


Using your knowledge of complex numbers, such as De Moivre's and Euler's formulae, verify the trigonometric identities for the double angle.


The curve C has polar equation 'r = 3a(1 + cos(x)). The tangent to C at point A is parallel to the initial line. Find the co-ordinates of A. 0<x<pi


Find the Taylor Series expansion of tan(x) about π/4 up to the term in terms of (x-π/4)^3.


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