Multiplying Complex Numbers: (7 + 2i)(-6 + 8i)
This article will guide you through the process of multiplying two complex numbers: (7 + 2i)(-6 + 8i).
Understanding Complex Numbers
Complex numbers are numbers that consist of a real part and an imaginary part. They are typically written in the form a + bi, where 'a' and 'b' are real numbers and 'i' is the imaginary unit, defined as the square root of -1 (i.e., i² = -1).
Multiplication Process
To multiply complex numbers, we follow the distributive property, just like multiplying binomials.
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Expand the product: (7 + 2i)(-6 + 8i) = 7(-6 + 8i) + 2i(-6 + 8i)
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Distribute: = -42 + 56i - 12i + 16i²
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Simplify using i² = -1: = -42 + 56i - 12i - 16
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Combine real and imaginary terms: = (-42 - 16) + (56 - 12)i
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Final result: = -58 + 44i
Therefore, the product of (7 + 2i)(-6 + 8i) is -58 + 44i.