Simplifying Complex Expressions: (8-2i^4)+(3-7i^8)-(4+i^9)
This article will walk through the process of simplifying the complex expression: (8-2i^4)+(3-7i^8)-(4+i^9).
Understanding the Properties of Imaginary Numbers
Before we can simplify the expression, we need to recall some key properties of imaginary numbers:
- i is defined as the square root of -1.
- i^2 = -1
- i^3 = i^2 * i = -1 * i = -i
- i^4 = i^2 * i^2 = (-1) * (-1) = 1
- This pattern of i^n repeats every four powers.
Simplifying the Expression
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Simplify the powers of i:
- i^4 = 1
- i^8 = (i^4)^2 = 1^2 = 1
- i^9 = i^4 * i^5 = 1 * i * (i^4) = i
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Substitute the simplified values:
- (8 - 2 * 1) + (3 - 7 * 1) - (4 + i)
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Simplify the real and imaginary components:
- (8 - 2 + 3 - 7 - 4) + (-1)i
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Combine the terms:
- 0 - i
Conclusion
Therefore, the simplified form of the complex expression (8-2i^4)+(3-7i^8)-(4+i^9) is -i.