Solving the Equation: (x + 3i)(x - 3i) = 34
This equation involves complex numbers and requires a bit of manipulation to solve for the unknown variable x. Let's break down the steps:
Understanding Complex Numbers
First, recall that complex numbers are expressed in the form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers and i is the imaginary unit, defined as √-1.
Expanding the Equation
We can solve this equation by expanding the left-hand side using the difference of squares pattern:
(x + 3i)(x - 3i) = x² - (3i)²
Remembering that i² = -1, we can simplify further:
x² - (3i)² = x² - 9(-1) = x² + 9
Solving for x
Now our equation becomes:
x² + 9 = 34
Subtracting 9 from both sides:
x² = 25
Taking the square root of both sides (remembering both positive and negative roots):
x = ±5
Conclusion
Therefore, the solutions to the equation (x + 3i)(x - 3i) = 34 are x = 5 and x = -5.