Chapter 2.4 - Complex Numbers

This chapter in the book has to do with complex numbers. A complex number is a number that has both real and imaginary terms. An imaginary number is any number that results in a negative number whenever it is squared. Imaginary numbers are used to give an answer to problems that normally would (and still technically do) have no solution.

The imaginary number is written 'i' and is equal to . It is treated as a variable until it can be squared at which point it can obviously be reverted to -1

They are helpful for solving negative square roots and solving the quadratic formula.

EXAMPLE #6

convert to quadratic formula

multiply and subtract

substitute i for

simplify

making the solutions

and

It's really not too hard to deal with once you get the hang of it, so good luck.

Dan O'Neil