Complex Numbers: Fundamental Concepts and Applications

Introduction to Complex Numbers

Complex numbers represent a fundamental extension of real numbers, enabling mathematical operations beyond the real number system. Denoted as ℂ, the complex number system finds extensive applications in mathematics, engineering, and physics.

Key Definition

A complex number takes the form \(a + bi\) , where:

  • \(a\) : real component
  • \(b\) : imaginary component
  • \(i\) : imaginary unit where \(i^2 = -1\)

Basic Operations with Complex Numbers

Addition and Subtraction

Addition: \((a+bi)+(c+di)=(a+c)+(b+d)i\)

Subtraction: \((a+bi)-(c+di)=(a-c)+(b-d)i\)

Multiplication and Division

Multiplication: \((a+bi)(c+di)=(ac-bd)+(ad+bc)i\)

Division: \(\frac{a+bi}{c+di}=\frac{(ac+bd)+(bc-ad)i}{c^2+d^2}\)

Properties and Forms

Complex Conjugate

For a complex number \(z=a+bi\) , its conjugate is:

\(\overline{z}=a-bi\)

Modulus and Argument

Modulus: \(|z|=\sqrt{a^2+b^2}\)

Argument: \(\arg(z)=\arctan(\frac{b}{a})\)

Alternative Representations

Polar Form

\(z=r(\cos\theta+i\sin\theta)\)

Exponential Form

\(z=re^{i\theta}\)

Powers and Roots of Complex Numbers

Powers of Complex Numbers

For a complex number in exponential form \(z=re^{i\theta}\) :

\(z^n=(re^{i\theta})^n=r^ne^{in\theta}\)

where n is a positive integer

Complex Roots

The n -th root of a complex number has n distinct values:

\(w_k=r^{\frac{1}{n}}e^{\frac{i(\theta+2k\pi)}{n}}\)

where \(k = 0,1,2,\ldots,n-1\)

Key Properties

  • Every complex number (except 0) has exactly n distinct n -th roots
  • The roots form a regular polygon in the complex plane
  • Each successive root is obtained by rotating through an angle of \(\frac{2\pi}{n}\)

Advanced Applications

De Moivre's Theorem

\((\cos\theta+i\sin\theta)^n=\cos(n\theta)+i\sin(n\theta)\)

Complex Analysis Foundations

Cauchy-Riemann Equations

For a complex function \(f(z)=u(x,y)+iv(x,y)\):

\(\frac{\partial u}{\partial x}=\frac{\partial v}{\partial y}\) and \(\frac{\partial u}{\partial y}=-\frac{\partial v}{\partial x}\)