How do you add or subtract complex numbers?

A complex number has the form a+bi. We call a the 'real' bit (ie. the bit on a regular number line) and b is the 'imaginary' bit.
To add or subtract complex numbers you just add the real bits of both together and the imaginary bits of both together. (You CAN'T add a real part to an imaginary part).
For example: what is (3+2i) + (5+4i)?
Real bits: 3+5=8
Imaginary bits: 2i+4i=6i
So the answer is 8+6i

Answered by Chloe B. Maths tutor

4403 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

Given y = 9x + 1/x, find the values of x such that dy/dx=0


Why maths is so hard sometimes?


A curve C has equation y=(2x-3)^5. Find the equation of the normal of this curve at point P with y coordinate -32.


Differentiate x^2 ln(3x) with respect to x


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences