Complex numbers
Operations on complex numbers Solve polynomial equations (complex solutions)

To write the imaginary unit \( i \), press Menu Icon and select \( i \)

Operations on complex numbers

Consider the complex numbers \( 3 + 4i \) and \( 2 + 5i \).

  1. Suppose you want to add them. For this, just add them as you would add real numbers:

    The result should be \( 5 + 9i \).

  2. Suppose you want to multiply them. Put each number in brackets and multiply each bracket:

    Recursive Formula Example

    The result should be \( -14 + 23i \).

  3. Suppose you want to divide them. Display a fraction by pressing Fraction Icon and select Fraction Icon. Put the numbers in each part of the fraction:

    Recursive Formula Example

    The result should be approximately \( 0.897 - 0.241i \) or \( \frac{26}{29} - \frac{7}{29}i \).

    If you want to switch from fraction to decimal writing, press Menu Icon and select Number > Convert to Decimal.

Solve polynomial equations (complex solutions)

Suppose you have to solve the equation \( x^2 + x + 1 = 0 \)

  1. Ensure the right-hand side is \( 0 \).
  2. Press Menu Icon, select Algebra > Complex > Solve, and the command csolve() will appear.
  3. Enter the equation and the variable of interest after a comma inside the brackets.
  4. Press Enter Icon. The solutions are displayed :

    Graph Example

    The results should be \( x_1 = -\frac{1}{2} + \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}i \) and \( x_2 = -\frac{1}{2} - \frac{\sqrt{3}}{2}i \) or in decimal form (rounded): \( x_1 = -0.5 + 0.866i \) and \( x_2 = -0.5 - 0.866i \).

    To change from fraction to decimal, press Menu Icon and select Number > Convert to Decimal.