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

4557 Views

See similar Maths A Level tutors

Related Maths A Level answers

All answers ▸

What is the best way to prove trig identities?


Differentiate x^2 + y^2 with respect to x


y = 2x^3 + 15x^2 + 24x + 10 Find the stationary points on this curve and determine their nature


Differentiate 3x^2+1/x and find the x coordinate of the stationary point of the curve of y=3x^2+1/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