Multiplying Complex Numbers: (-1 - 5i) * (1 - 2i)
This article will guide you through the process of multiplying the complex numbers (-1 - 5i) and (1 - 2i).
Understanding Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are numbers of the form a + bi, where:
- a is the real part.
- b is the imaginary part.
- i is the imaginary unit, where i² = -1.
Multiplication Process
To multiply complex numbers, we use the distributive property, just like with binomials.
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Expand: (-1 - 5i)(1 - 2i) = (-1 * 1) + (-1 * -2i) + (-5i * 1) + (-5i * -2i)
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Simplify: = -1 + 2i - 5i + 10i²
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Substitute i² with -1: = -1 + 2i - 5i + 10(-1)
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Combine real and imaginary terms: = (-1 - 10) + (2 - 5)i
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Final Result: = -11 - 3i