Math Problem Statement

How do you simplify the following expression? [(2 ± (-12)^(1/2))/2]

Solution

To simplify the expression (2±122)\left( \frac{2 \pm \sqrt{-12}}{2} \right), follow these steps:

Step 1: Simplify the square root of 12-12

Since 12\sqrt{-12} involves a negative number, we need to express this in terms of imaginary numbers: 12=12i=23i\sqrt{-12} = \sqrt{12} \cdot i = 2\sqrt{3} \cdot i Here, ii represents the imaginary unit, where i2=1i^2 = -1.

Step 2: Substitute 12\sqrt{-12} back into the expression

Now the expression becomes: 2±23i2\frac{2 \pm 2\sqrt{3}i}{2}

Step 3: Simplify the fraction

You can now simplify by dividing both terms in the numerator by 2: 22±23i2=1±3i\frac{2}{2} \pm \frac{2\sqrt{3}i}{2} = 1 \pm \sqrt{3}i

Final Simplified Expression:

The simplified expression is: 1±3i1 \pm \sqrt{3}i

Let me know if you have questions or need further details!


Here are 5 related questions:

  1. How do you simplify other complex numbers involving square roots?
  2. What is the significance of the imaginary unit ii?
  3. How do you plot complex numbers on the complex plane?
  4. How do you add and subtract complex numbers?
  5. What are the polar coordinates of the complex number 1+3i1 + \sqrt{3}i?

Tip: Whenever you encounter negative square roots, think of imaginary numbers using i=1i = \sqrt{-1}.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Complex Numbers
Square Roots
Imaginary Unit

Formulas

√(-a) = √(a) * i
Simplifying complex expressions by dividing the numerator by the denominator

Theorems

Fundamental Theorem of Algebra (involving complex numbers)

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-12