How do I find the square root of a complex number?

Say you want to find the square root of the complex number 3+2i.
We can assume that the answer we want will be in the form a+bi.
It follows then, that you can also write 3+2i as (a+bi)2.
Expanding this gives us 3+2i = a2+2abi-b2
Then all we need to do is compare the coefficients of the imaginary and real parts: i.e. 3 = a2-b2 and 2 = 2ab.
Solve these 2 simultaneous equations to get a =1.8 and b = 0.56 (ignore any imaginary solutions for a and b - they have to be real).
Therefore the square root of 3+2i is 1.8+0.56i. You can check this by squaring our solution and you'll get back to 3+2i (or near enough due to rounding).


DC
Answered by Dan C. Further Mathematics tutor

8788 Views

See similar Further Mathematics A Level tutors

Related Further Mathematics A Level answers

All answers ▸

Simplify (2x^3+8x^2+17x+18)/(x+2)


The curve C has parametric equations x=cos(t)+1/2*sin(2t) and y =-(1+sin(t)) for 0<=t<=2π. Find a Cartesian equation for C. Find the volume of the solid of revolution of C about the y-axis.


How do you prove the formula for the sum of n terms of an arithmetic progression?


Using mathematical induction, prove that n^3+2n is divisible by 3 for all integers n


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning