Adding Complex Numbers: (-4 + 7i) + (-4 - 7i)
This problem involves adding two complex numbers. Let's break down the process:
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, defined as the square root of -1 (i² = -1)
Adding Complex Numbers
To add complex numbers, we simply add the real parts and the imaginary parts separately.
Applying the concept to our problem:
We have: (-4 + 7i) + (-4 - 7i)
- Real Part: -4 + (-4) = -8
- Imaginary Part: 7i + (-7i) = 0i = 0
Therefore, the sum of the complex numbers is: -8 + 0i or simply -8
Key Points:
- Adding complex numbers is like adding vectors. You add the corresponding components.
- The result of adding two complex numbers is always a complex number.
- In this case, the imaginary parts canceled out, leaving us with a real number as the final answer.