Solving Complex Number Multiplication: (15-4i)(6-3i) = a + bi
This article will guide you through the steps of multiplying two complex numbers and expressing the result in the standard form of a complex number (a + bi).
Understanding Complex Numbers
A complex number is a number that can be expressed in the form a + bi, where:
- a and b are real numbers
- i is the imaginary unit, defined as the square root of -1 (i² = -1)
Multiplication Process
To multiply complex numbers, we use the distributive property (FOIL method) just like we do with binomials.
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Expand the product: (15 - 4i)(6 - 3i) = (15 * 6) + (15 * -3i) + (-4i * 6) + (-4i * -3i)
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Simplify: 90 - 45i - 24i + 12i²
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Substitute i² with -1: 90 - 45i - 24i + 12(-1)
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Combine real and imaginary terms: (90 - 12) + (-45 - 24)i
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Simplify further: 78 - 69i
Final Answer
Therefore, (15 - 4i)(6 - 3i) = 78 - 69i, where a = 78 and b = -69.