Adding Complex Numbers: (3 - 4i) + (-7 - 8i)
This article will guide you through adding the complex numbers (3 - 4i) and (-7 - 8i) to arrive at the simplest form.
Understanding Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are numbers 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)
Adding Complex Numbers
Adding complex numbers is straightforward. We simply add the real parts and add the imaginary parts separately.
Solving the Problem
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Identify the real and imaginary parts:
- (3 - 4i): Real part = 3, Imaginary part = -4
- (-7 - 8i): Real part = -7, Imaginary part = -8
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Add the real parts: 3 + (-7) = -4
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Add the imaginary parts: (-4) + (-8) = -12
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Combine the results: -4 - 12i
Final Answer
Therefore, the sum of (3 - 4i) and (-7 - 8i) in its simplest form is -4 - 12i.