Chapter 35

Complex numbers
35.1

Cartesian complex numbers

(i) If the quadratic equation x 2 + 2x + 5 = 0 is solved

using the quadratic formula then:
p
(2)2 (4)(1)(5)
x=
2(1)

2 16
2 (16)(1)
=
=
2
2

2 16 1
2 4 1
=
=
2
2

= 1 2 1

It is not possible to evaluate 1 in real

terms.
However, if an operator j is defined as
j = 1 then the solution may be expressed as
x = 1 j2.
2

Since x 2 + 4 = 0 then x 2 = 4 and x = 4

i.e.,

(Note that j2 may also be written as 2j).

Problem 2.

Problem 1.

Solve the quadratic equation:

x2 + 4 = 0

Solve the quadratic equation:

2x 2 + 3x + 5 = 0

Using the quadratic formula,

p

(3)2 4(2)(5)
2(2)

3 31
3 1 31
=
=
4
4

3 j 31
=
4
3

x=

(ii) 1 + j2 and 1 j2 are known as complex numbers. Both solutions are of the form a + jb, a
being termed the real part and jb the imaginary
part. A complex number of the form a + jb is
called a Cartesian complex number.
(iii) In pure
mathematics the symbol i is used to indicate 1 (i being the first letter of the word
imaginary). However i is the symbol of electric
current in engineering, and to avoid possible confusion the
next letter in the alphabet, j, is used to
represent 1

p

(1)(4) = 1 4 = j(2)

= j2, (since j = 1)

x=

Hence

3
31
x= +j
or 0.750 j1.392,
4
4
correct to 3 decimal places.

(Note, a graph of y = 2x 2 + 3x + 5 does not cross the

x-axis and hence 2x 2 + 3x + 5 = 0 has no real roots).
Problem 3.
(a) j3

Evaluate

(b) j4

(c) j23

(d)

4
j9

314 Engineering Mathematics

j3 = j2 j = (1) j = j, since j2 = 1

(a)
(b)

Imaginary
axis

j4 = j2 j2 = (1) (1) = 1

(c) j23 = j j22 = j ( j2 )11 = j (1)11

j4
j3

= j (1) = j

(d)

=j1=j
Hence

j2

j9 = j j8 = j ( j2 )4 = j (1)4

4
4
4 j
4j
=

= 2
=
9
j
j
j
j
j
4j
= 4 j or j4
=
(1)

0
j

3 Real axis

j2
j3

j4

Now try the following exercise

Exercise 127 Further problems on the
introduction to Cartesian
complex numbers

Section 6

In Problems 1 to 3, solve the quadratic equations.

1. x 2 + 25 = 0

[j5]

2. 2x 2 + 3x + 4 = 0
"
#

3
23
j
or 0.750 j1.199
4
4
3. 4t 2 5t + 7 = 0
"
#

87
5
j
or 0.625 j1.166
8
8
4. Evaluate (a)

j8

1
4
(b) 7 (c) 13
j
2j
[(a) 1 (b) j

j5

Figure 35.1

35.3

Addition and subtraction of

complex numbers

Two complex numbers are added/subtracted by adding/

subtracting separately the two real parts and the two
imaginary parts.
For example, if Z1 = a + jb and Z2 = c + jd,
then

Z1 + Z2 = (a + jb) + (c + jd)
= (a + c) + j(b + d)

and

Z1 Z2 = (a + jb) (c + jd)
= (a c) + j(b d)

(c) j2]

Thus, for example,

(2 + j3) + (3 j4) = 2 + j3 + 3 j4
= 5 j1

35.2 The Argand diagram

and
A complex number may be represented pictorially on
rectangular or Cartesian axes. The horizontal (or x) axis
is used to represent the real axis and the vertical (or y)
axis is used to represent the imaginary axis. Such a diagram is called an Argand diagram. In Fig. 35.1, the
point A represents the complex number (3 + j2) and is
obtained by plotting the co-ordinates (3, j2) as in graphical work. Figure 35.1 also shows the Argand points B,
C and D representing the complex numbers (2 + j4),
(3 j5) and (1 j3) respectively.

(2 + j3) (3 j4) = 2 + j3 3 + j4
= 1 + j7

The addition and subtraction of complex numbers may

be achieved graphically as shown in the Argand diagram of Fig. 35.2. (2 + j3) is represented by vector OP
and (3 j4) by vector OQ. In Fig. 35.2(a), by vector addition, (i.e. the diagonal of the parallelogram),
OP + OQ = OR. R is the point (5, j1).
Hence (2 + j3) + (3 j4) = 5 j1

Complex numbers 315

Imaginary
axis

Problem 4. Given Z1 = 2 + j4 and Z2 = 3 j

determine (a) Z1 + Z2 , (b) Z1 Z2 , (c) Z2 Z1 and
show the results on an Argand diagram
P (2 ! j 3)

j3

(a) Z1 + Z2 = (2 + j4) + (3 j)

j2

= (2 + 3) + j(4 1) = 5 + j3

j
0

(b) Z1 Z2 = (2 + j4) (3 j)

5 Real axis
R (5 j )

= (2 3) + j(4 (1)) = 1 + j5
(c) Z2 Z1 = (3 j) (2 + j4)

j2

= (3 2) + j(1 4) = 1 j5

j3
j4

Q (3

Each result is shown in the Argand diagram of Fig. 35.3.

j4)

Imaginary
axis
( 1 ! j 5)
j5

(a)
Imaginary
axis
S ( 1 ! j 7)

j4
(5 ! j 3)

j3
j7
j
j5

Q9

1 0
j

j4

5 Real axis

P (2 ! j 3)

j3

j2
j2
j3
j
j4
3

1 0

j5

3 Real axis

(1

j 5)

j
j2

Figure 35.3

j3
j4

Q (3

j4)

(b)

Figure 35.2

In Fig. 35.2(b), vector OQ is reversed (shown as OQ )

since it is being subtracted. (Note OQ = 3 j4 and
OQ = (3 j4) = 3 + j4).

OP OQ = OP + OQ = OS is found to be the Argand

point (1, j7).
Hence (2 + j3) (3 j4) = 1 + j7

35.4

Multiplication and division of

complex numbers

(i) Multiplication of complex numbers is achieved

by assuming all quantities involved are real and
then using j2 = 1 to simplify.
Hence (a + jb)(c + jd )
= ac + a( jd) + ( jb)c + ( jb)( jd)

= ac + jad + jbc + j2bd

= (ac bd) + j(ad + bc),

since j2 = 1

Section 6

j2
j6

316 Engineering Mathematics

Thus (3 + j2)(4 j5)

(b)

= 12 j15 + j8 j2 10

1 j3
3 + j4
1 j3
Z1
=

=
Z3
3 j4
3 j4 3 + j4

= (12 (10)) + j(15 + 8)

= 22 j7
(ii) The complex conjugate of a complex number is
obtained by changing the sign of the imaginary
part. Hence the complex conjugate of a + jb is
a jb. The product of a complex number and its
complex conjugate is always a real number.

(c)

= 9 + 16 = 25
[(a + jb)(a jb) may be evaluated on sight as
a 2 + b2 ]
(iii) Division of complex numbers is achieved by
multiplying both numerator and denominator by
the complex conjugate of the denominator.

Section 6

(d)

2 j5 (3 j4)
2 j5
=

3 + j4
3 + j4 (3 j4)

13 + j11
, from part (a),
1 + j2

13 + j11 1 j2

1 + j2
1 j2

13 j26 j11 j2 22
12 + 22

9 j37
9
37
= j
or 1.8 j7.4
5
5
5

Z1 Z2 = 13 + j11, from part (a)

= 39 j52 j33 j2 44
= (39 + 44) j(52 + 33) = 5 j85

14 j23
14
23
=
j
25
25
25
or 0.56 j0.92

Problem 6.
(a)

Problem 5. If Z1 = 1 j3, Z2 = 2 + j5 and

Z3 = 3 j4, determine in a + jb form:
Z1
(b)
Z3

(a) Z1 Z2

(a)

9 + j13
9
13
=
+j
25
25
25

Z1 Z2 Z3 = (13 + j11)(3 j4), since

6 j8 j15 + j2 20
=
32 + 42

(c)

Z1 Z2
(1 j3)(2 + j5)
=
Z1 + Z2
(1 j3) + (2 + j5)

(3 + j4)(3 j4) = 9 j12 + j12 j2 16

3 + j4 + j9 j2 12
32 + 42

or 0.36 + j0.52

For example,

For example,

Z 1 Z2
Z 1 + Z2

(a)

= 2 + j5 + j6 j2 15

2
(1 + j)4

(b) j

1 + j3
1 j2

(1 + j)2 = (1 + j)(1 + j) = 1 + j + j + j2
= 1 + j + j 1 = j2

(1 + j)4 = [(1 + j)2 ]2 = ( j2)2 = j2 4 = 4

(d) Z1 Z2 Z3

Z1 Z2 = (1 j3)(2 + j5)

Evaluate:

Hence
(b)

2
1
2
=
=
4
(1 + j)
4
2

1 + j3 1 + j2
1 + j3
=

1 j2
1 j2 1 + j2

1 + j2 + j3 + j2 6
5 + j5
=
2
2
1 +2
5

= (2 + 15) + j(5 + 6), since j2 = 1,

= 13 + j11

= 1 + j1 = 1 + j

Complex numbers 317

1 + j3
1 j2

= (1 + j)2 = (1 + j)(1 + j)
= 1 j j + j2 = j2

1 + j3
Hence j
1 j2

= j(j2) = j2 2 = 2,
since j2 = 1

Now try the following exercise

35.5 Complex equations

If two complex numbers are equal, then their real parts
are equal and their imaginary parts are equal. Hence
if a + jb = c + jd, then a = c and b = d

Problem 7.

(a) 2(x + jy) = 6 j3

Exercise 128 Further problems on

operations involving
Cartesian complex numbers
1. Evaluate
(a)
(3 + j2) + (5 j)
and
(b) (2 + j6) (3 j2) and show the
results on an Argand diagram.
[(a) 8 + j (b) 5 + j8]

(b) (1 + j2)(2 j3) = a + jb

(a) 2(x + jy) = 6 j3 hence 2x + j2y = 6 j3

Equating the real parts gives:
2x = 6, i.e. x = 3
Equating the imaginary parts gives:

2. Write down the complex conjugates of

(a) 3 + j4, (b) 2 j [(a) 3 j4 (b) 2 + j]
In Problems 3 to 7 evaluate in a + jb form
given Z1 = 1 + j2, Z2 = 4 j3, Z3 = 2 + j3 and
Z4 = 5 j.
3. (a) Z1 + Z2 Z3
4. (a) Z1 Z2

(b) Z2 Z1 + Z4
[(a) 7 j4 (b) 2 j6]

(b) Z3 Z4
[(a) 10 + j5

2y = 3, i.e. y =
(b)

2 j3 j4 j2 6 = a + jb
Hence

1j
1+j

1
(b)
1+j

(a) j

1
1
(b) j
2
2

25 1 + j2 2 j5
9. Show that:

2
3 + j4
j
= 57 + j24

4 j7 = a + jb

Equating real and imaginary terms gives:

(b) 13 j13]

(b) Z1 Z2 Z3
[(a) 13 j2 (b) 35 + j20]
Z1
Z 1 + Z3
6. (a)
(b)
Z2

Z2 Z4
11
2
19
43
+j
(b)
+j
(a)
25
25
85
85
Z1 Z3
Z1
7. (a)
(b) Z2 +
+ Z3
Z1 + Z3
Z4

41
45
9
3
(a)
+j
(b)
j
26
26
26
26

3
2

(1 + j2)(2 j3) = a + jb

a = 4 and b = 7

5. (a) Z1 Z3 + Z4

8. Evaluate (a)

Solve the complex equations:

Problem 8.

Solve the equations:

(a) (2 j3) = a + jb
(b) (x j2y) + (y j3x) = 2 + j3

(a) (2 j3) =
Hence
i.e.

a + jb

(2 j3)2 = a + jb

(2 j3)(2 j3) = a + jb

Hence 4 j6 j6 + j2 9 = a + jb
and

5 j12 = a + jb

Thus a = 5 and b = 12
(b) (x j2y) + (y j3x) = 2 + j3
Hence (x + y) + j(2y 3x) = 2 + j3

Section 6

318 Engineering Mathematics

Equating real and imaginary parts gives:

and

x+y =2

(1)

3x 2y = 3

(2)

Z = r( cos + j sin ) is usually abbreviated to

Z = r which is known as the polar form of
a complex number.
Imaginary
axis

i.e. two stimulaneous equations to solve

Multiplying equation (1) by 2 gives:

2x + 2y = 4

(3)
r

Adding equations (2) and (3) gives:

q
O

x = 7, i.e. x = 7
From equation (1), y = 9, which may be checked
in equation (2)
Now try the following exercise
Exercise 129 Further problems on complex
equations

Section 6

2+j
= j(x + jy)
1j

3. (2 j3) = a + jb
2.

[a = 8, b = 1]

3
1
x= , y=
2
2
[a = 5,

4. (x j2y) (y jx) = 2 + j

y = 1]

5. If Z = R + jL + 1/jC, express Z in (a + jb)

form when R = 10, L = 5, C = 0.04 and = 4
[z = 10 + j13.75]

35.6 The polar form of a complex

number
(i) Let a complex number Z be x + jy as shown in the
Argand diagram of Fig. 35.4. Let distance OZ be
r and the angle OZ makes with the positive real
axis be .
From trigonometry, x = r cos and
y = r sin
Hence Z = x + jy = r cos + jr sin
= r( cos + j sin )

A Real axis

(ii) r is called the modulus (or magnitude) of Z and

is written as mod Z or |Z|.
r is determined using Pythagoras theorem on
triangle OAZ in Fig. 35.4,
i.e.

q
r = x2 + y2

(iii) is called the argument (or amplitude) of Z and

is written as arg Z.
By trigonometry on triangle OAZ,
arg Z = = tan1

b = 12]

[x = 3,

Figure 35.4

In Problems 1 to 4 solve the complex equations.

1. (2 + j)(3 j2) = a + jb

jy

y
x

(iv) Whenever changing from Cartesian form to polar

form, or vice-versa, a sketch is invaluable for
determining the quadrant in which the complex
number occurs

Problem 9. Determine the modulus and argument

of the complex number Z = 2 + j3, and express Z in
polar form

Z = 2 + j3 lies in the first quadrant as shown in Fig. 35.5.

Modulus, |Z| = r = 22 + 32 = 13 or 3.606, correct

to 3 decimal places.
Argument,

3
2

= 56.31 or 56 19

arg Z = = tan1

In polar form, 2 + j3 is written as 3.606 56.31 or

3.606 56 19

Complex numbers 319

Argument = 180 53.13 = 126.87 (i.e. the
argument must be measured from the positive real
axis).

Imaginary
axis
j3

Hence 3 + j4 = 5126.87
r

(c) 3 j4 is shown in Fig. 35.6 and lies in the third

quadrant.

q
0

Modulus, r = 5 and = 53.13, as above.

Real axis

Hence the argument = 180 + 53.13 = 233.13 ,

which is the same as 126.87

Figure 35.5

Hence (3 j4) = 5233.13 or 5126.87

Problem 10. Express the following complex

numbers in polar form:
(a)

3 + j4

(c) 3 j4

(b)

3 + j4

(d)

3 j4

(By convention the principal value is normally

used, i.e. the numerically least value, such that
< < ).
(d) 3 j4 is shown in Fig. 35.6 and lies in the fourth
quadrant.
Modulus, r = 5 and angle = 53.13 , as above.

4
= 53.13 or 53 8
3
Hence 3 + j4 = 553.13
= tan1

Problem 11. Convert (a) 430 (b) 7145

into a + jb form, correct to 4 significant figures
(a) 430 is shown in Fig. 35.7(a) and lies in the first
quadrant.

(b) 3 + j4 is shown in Fig. 35.6 and lies in the second

quadrant.
Modulus, r = 5 and angle = 53.13 , from
part (a).

Using trigonometric ratios,

x = 4 cos 30 = 3.464 and y = 4 sin 30 = 2.000
Hence 430 = 3.464 + j2.000

Imaginary
axis
( 3 ! j 4)

Hence (3 j4) = 553.13

Imaginary
axis

(3 ! j 4)

j4
j3
r

j2

4
30

jy
Real axis

j
3

q
a1

a
1a

(a)
2

Real axis

j
r

j2

x
a

r
jy

j3
( 3

Figure 35.6

j 4)

(3

j 4)

7
(b)

Figure 35.7

Real axis
145

Section 6

(a) 3 + j4 is shown in Fig. 35.6 and lies in the first

quadrant.

Modulus, r = 32 + 42 = 5 and argument

320 Engineering Mathematics

(b) 7145 is shown in Fig. 35.7(b) and lies in the
third quadrant.

10
(b)

Angle = 180 145 = 35

Hence

x = 7 cos 35 = 5.734

and

y = 7 sin 35 = 4.015

Hence 7145 = 5.734 j4.015

12

4
2 = 10 2 +

6
4
2
3
6
3
11
13
or 20
or
= 20
12
12
20195 or 20165

Problem 14.

Alternatively

230 + 545 4120

7 145 = 7 cos (145 ) + j7 sin (145 )

= 5.734 j4.015

Section 6

35.7

Evaluate, in polar form:

Multiplication and division in

polar form

Addition and subtraction in polar form is not possible

directly. Each complex number has to be converted into
Cartesian form first.
230 = 2( cos 30 + j sin 30 )

= 2 cos 30 + j2 sin 30 = 1.732 + j1.000

545 = 5( cos (45 ) + j sin (45 ))

If Z1 = r1 1 and Z2 = r2 2 then:

= 5 cos (45 ) + j5 sin (45 )

(i) Z1 Z2 = r1 r2 ( 1 + 2 ) and

= 3.536 j3.536

(ii)

Z1 r1
= ( 1 2 )
Z2 r2

4120 = 4( cos 120 + j sin 120 )

= 4 cos 120 + j4 sin 120
= 2.000 + j3.464

Problem 12.

Determine, in polar form:

(a) 825 460

(b) 316 544 280

(a)

825 460 = (8 4)(25 + 60 ) = 3285

(b) 316 544 280

= (3 5 2)[16 + (44 ) + 80 ] = 3052

Hence 230 + 545 4120

= (1.732 + j1.000) + (3.536 j3.536)
(2.000 + j3.464)
= 7.268 j6.000, which lies in the
=

7.2682 + 6.0002 tan1

fourth quadrant

6.000
7.268

= 9.42539.54 or 9.42539 32
Now try the following exercise

Problem 13.
1675
(a)
215

(a)

Evaluate in polar form:

10 12
4
2
(b)

6
3

1675
16
(75 15 ) = 860
=

215
2

Exercise 130 Further problems on polar

form
1. Determine the modulus and argument of
(a) 2 + j4 (b) 5 j2 (c) j(2 j).
"
#
(a) 4.472, 63.43 (b) 5.385, 158.20
(c) 2.236, 63.43

Complex numbers 321

2. (a) 2 + j3 (b) 4 (c) 6 + j

"
#
(a) 1356.31
(b) 4180

(c) 37170.54
3. (a) j3 (b) (2 + j)3 (c) j3 (1 j)
"
#

(a) 390
(b) 125100.30

(c) 2135

The effect of multiplying a phasor by j is to rotate it

in a positive direction (i.e. anticlockwise) on an Argand
diagram through 90 without altering its length. Similarly, multiplying a phasor by j rotates the phasor
through 90 . These facts are used in a.c. theory since
certain quantities in the phasor diagrams lie at 90 to
each other. For example, in the RL series circuit shown
in Fig. 35.8(a), VL leads I by 90 (i.e. I lags VL by
90 ) and may be written as jV L , the vertical axis being
regarded as the imaginary axis of an Argand diagram.
Thus VR + jV L = V and since VR = IR, V = IX L (where
XL is the inductive reactance, 2f L ohms) and V = IZ
(where Z is the impedance) then R + jX L = Z.

In Problems 4 and 5 convert the given polar complex numbers into (a + jb) form giving answers
correct to 4 significant figures.
4. (a) 530

5. (a) 6125

(b) 360 (c) 745

(a) 4.330 + j2.500

(b) 1.500 + j2.598
(c) 4.950 + j4.950
(b) 4 (c) 3.5120

(a) 3.441 + j4.915

(b) 4.000 + j0

(c) 1.750 j3.031

In Problems 6 to 8, evaluate in polar form.

6. (a) 320 1545
(b)

2.465 4.421

[(a) 4565

(b) 10.5644 ]

7. (a) 6.427 215

(b) 530 480 1040

[(a) 3.24.2 (b) 2150 ]

8. (a) 4 + 3
6
8

(b) 2120 + 5.258 1.640

[(a) 6.98626.79 (b) 7.19085.77 ]

35.8

Applications of complex
numbers

There are several applications of complex numbers

in science and engineering, in particular in electrical alternating current theory and in mechanical vector
analysis.

VR

VL

VR

VC
V

V
Phasor diagram
VL

Phasor diagram
VR
f

q
VR

VC

(a)

(b)

Figure 35.8

Similarly, for the RC circuit shown in Figure 35.8(b),

VC lags I by 90 (i.e. I leads VC by 90 ) and
VR jV C = V , from which R jX C = Z (where XC is
1
ohms).
the capacitive reactance
2 f C
Problem 15. Determine the resistance and series
inductance (or capacitance) for each of the
following impedances, assuming a frequency of
50 Hz:
(a) (4.0 + j7.0) (b) j20
(c) 1560

(a) Impedance, Z = (4.0 + j7.0) hence,

resistance = 4.0 and reactance = 7.0 .
Since the imaginary part is positive, the reactance
is inductive,
i.e. XL = 7.0

Section 6

In Problems 2 and 3 express the given Cartesian

complex numbers in polar form, leaving answers
in surd form.

322 Engineering Mathematics

Since XL = 2 f L then inductance,
L=

XL
7.0
=
= 0.0223 H or 22.3 mH
2 f
2(50)

(b) Impedance, Z = j20, i.e. Z = (0 j20) hence

resistance = 0 and reactance = 20 . Since the
imaginary part is negative, the reactance is capac1
itive, i.e. XC = 20 and since XC =
then:
2 f C
capacitance, C =
=

1
1
=
F
2 f XC
2(50)(20)
106
F = 159.2 F
2(50)(20)

(c) Impedance, Z
= 1560 = 15[ cos (60 ) + j sin (60 )]
= 7.50 j12.99 .

(c) Magnitude of impedance,

p
|Z| = 602 + (100)2 = 116.6

100
1
= 59.04
Phase angle, arg Z = tan
60
(d) Current flowing, I =

The circuit and phasor diagrams are as shown in

Fig. 35.8(b).

Problem 17. For the parallel circuit shown in

Fig. 35.9, determine the value of current I, and its
phase relative to the 240 V supply, using complex
numbers
R1 ! 4

Section 6

Hence resistance = 7.50 and capacitive reactance, XC = 12.99

106
1
=
F
2 f XC
2(50)(12.99)

XL ! 3

R2 ! 10

1
Since XC =
then capacitance,
2 f C
C=

240 0
V
=
Z 116.659.04
= 2.05859.04A

R3 ! 12
I

XC ! 5

= 245 F
240 V, 50 Hz

Problem 16. An alternating voltage of 240 V,

50 Hz is connected across an impedance of
(60 j100) . Determine (a) the resistance (b) the
capacitance (c) the magnitude of the impedance and
its phase angle and (d) the current flowing

Figure 35.9

V
Current I = . Impedance Z for the three-branch
Z
parallel circuit is given by:
1
1
1
1
=
+
+
Z
Z1
Z2
Z3

(a) Impedance Z = (60 j100) .

where Z1 = 4 + j3, Z2 = 10 and Z3 = 12 j5

Hence resistance = 60
(b) Capacitive reactance XC = 100 and since
1
XC =
then
2 f C
1
1
capacitance, C =
=
2 f XC
2(50)(100)
=

106
F
2(50)(100)

= 31.83 F

Admittance,

Y1 =
=

1
1
=
Z1
4 + j3
4 j3
4 j3
1

= 2
4 + j3 4 j3
4 + 32

= 0.160 j0.120 siemens

Admittance, Y2 =

1
1
= 0.10 siemens
=
Z2
10

Complex numbers 323

1
1
=
Z3
12 j5
1
12 + j5
12 + j5
=

= 2
12 j5 12 + j5
12 + 52

Y3 =

= 0.0710 + j0.0296 siemens

Total admittance,

Y = Y1 + Y2 + Y3
= (0.160 j0.120) + (0.10)
+ (0.0710 + j0.0296)
= 0.331 j0.0904

= 0.34315.28 siemens
Current I =

V
= VY
Z
= (2400 )(0.34315.28 )
= 82.3215.28 A

10 N acting at 45 from the

positive horizontal axis,
Force B, 8 N acting at 120 from the
positive horizontal axis,
Force C, 15 N acting at 210 from the
positive horizontal axis.
Force A,

The space diagram is shown in Fig. 35.10. The forces

may be written as complex numbers.
10 N
210
120
45

15 N

Figure 35.10

Thus force A, fA = 1045 , force B, fB = 8120 and

force C, fC = 15210 .
The resultant force
= fA + fB + fC

+ 8( cos 120 + j sin 120 )

+ 15( cos 210 + j sin 210 )

= (7.071 + j7.071) + (4.00 + j6.928)

+ (12.99 j7.50)
= 9.919 + j6.499
Magnitude of resultant force
p
= (9.919)2 + 6.4992 = 11.86 N
Direction of resultant force

6.499
1
= tan
= 146.77
9.919

(since 9.919 + j6.499 lies in the second quadrant).

Now try the following exercise

Problem 18. Determine the magnitude and

direction of the resultant of the three coplanar
forces given below, when they act at a point:

8N

= 10( cos 45 + j sin 45 )

= 1045 + 8120 + 15210

Exercise 131 Further problems on

applications of complex
numbers
1. Determine the resistance R and series inductance L (or capacitance C) for each of the
following impedances assuming the frequency
to be 50 Hz.
(a) (3 + j8) (b) (2 j3)
(c) j14 (d) 8 60

(a) R = 3 , L = 25.5 mH
(b) R = 2 , C = 1061 F

(c) R = 0, L = 44.56 mH
(d) R = 4 , C = 459.5 F

2. Two impedances,
Z1 = (3 + j6) and
Z2 = (4 j3) are connected in series to
a supply voltage of 120 V. Determine the
magnitude of the current and its phase angle
relative to the voltage.
[15.76 A, 23.20 lagging]
3. If the two impedances in Problem 2 are connected in parallel determine the current flowing and its phase relative to the 120 V supply
voltage.
[27.25 A, 3.37 lagging]
4. A series circuit consists of a 12 resistor, a
coil of inductance 0.10 H and a capacitance of

Section 6

Admittance,

324 Engineering Mathematics

160 F. Calculate the current flowing and its
phase relative to the supply voltage of 240 V,
50 Hz. Determine also the power factor of the
circuit.
[14.42 A, 43.85 lagging, 0.721]
5. For the circuit shown in Fig. 35.11, determine
the current I flowing and its phase relative to
the applied voltage.
[14.58 A, 2.51 leading]
XC ! 20

R1 ! 30

R2 ! 40

XL ! 50

R3 ! 25

Section 6

V ! 200 V

Figure 35.11

6. Determine, using complex numbers, the magnitude and direction of the resultant of the
coplanar forces given below, which are acting at a point. Force A, 5 N acting horizontally,
Force B, 9 N acting at an angle of 135 to force
A, Force C, 12 N acting at an angle of 240 to
force A.
[8.394 N, 208.68 from force A]
7. A delta-connected impedance ZA is given by:
ZA =

Z1 Z2 + Z2 Z3 + Z3 Z1
Z2

Determine ZA in both Cartesian and polar form

given Z1 = (10 + j0) , Z2 = (0 j10) and
Z3 = (10 + j10) .
[(10 + j20) , 22.3663.43 ]

8. In the hydrogen atom, the angular momentum, p, of

thede Broglie wave is given by:
jh
(jm).
p =
2
Determine an expression for p.

mh

2
9. An aircraft P flying at a constant height has
a velocity of (400 + j300) km/h. Another aircraft Q at the same height has a velocity of
(200 j600) km/h. Determine (a) the velocity of P relative to Q, and (b) the velocity of
Q relative to P. Express the answers in polar
form, correct to the nearest km/h.

(a) 922 km/h at 77.47

(b) 922 km/h at 102.53

10. Three vectors are represented by P, 230 ,

Q, 390 and R, 460 . Determine
in polar form the vectors represented by
(a) P + Q + R, (b) P Q R.
[(a) 3.7708.17 (b) 1.488100.37 ]
11. In
a
Schering
bridge
Zx = (RX jXCX ), Z2 = jXC2 ,
(R3 )(jXC3 )
(R3 jXC3 )
1
XC =
2 f C
Z3 =

and

Z 4 = R4

At balance: (ZX )(Z3 ) = (Z2 )(Z4 ).

Show that at balance RX =
CX =

C2 R3
R4

circuit,

where

C3 R4
and
C2

Chapter 36

De Moivres theorem
36.1

= 2197742.14

Introduction

From multiplication of complex numbers in polar form,

2

(r) (r) = r 2
Similarly, (r) (r) (r) = r 3 3, and so on.
In general, de Moivres theorem states:
[r]n = rn n
The theorem is true for all positive, negative and fractional values of n. The theorem is used to determine
powers and roots of complex numbers.

36.2

Powers of complex numbers

For example, [320 ]4 = 34 (4 20 ) = 8180 by

de Moivres theorem.
Problem 1.
(a) [235 ]5

(a)

Determine, in polar form:

(b) (2 + j3)6

[235 ]5 = 25 (5 35 ),
from De Moivres theorem

(b)

= 32175

p
3
1
2
2
(2 + j3) = (2) + (3) tan
2

= 13123.69 , since 2 + j3
lies in the second quadrant

(2 + j3)6 = [ 3123.69 ]6

= 136 (6 123.69 ),
by De Moivres theorem

= 2197382.14

(since 742.14 742.14 360 = 382.14 )

= 219722.14

(since 382.14 382.14 360 = 22.14 )

Problem 2. Determine the value of (7 + j5)4 ,
expressing the result in polar and rectangular forms

(7 + j5) =
=

(7)2

+ 52 tan1

74144.46

5
7

(Note, by considering the Argand diagram, 7 + j5

must represent an angle in the second quadrant and not
in the fourth quadrant).
Applying de Moivres theorem:

(7 + j5)4 = [ 74144.46 ]4

= 744 4 144.46
= 5476577.84

= 5476217.84 or

5476217 15 in polar form.

Since r = r cos + jr sin ,

5476217.84 = 5476 cos 217.84

+ j5476 sin 217.84

= 4325 j3359

i.e. (7 + j5)4 = 4325 j3359

in rectangular form.

326 Engineering Mathematics

Now try the following exercise
Exercise 132

Further problems on powers

of complex numbers

1. Determine in polar form (a) [1.515 ]5

(b) (1 + j2)6
[(a) 7.59475
(b) 12520.61 ]
2. Determine in polar and Cartesian forms
(a) [341 ]4 (b) (2 j)5

(a) 81164 , 77.86 + j22.33

(b) 55.90 47.18 , 38 j41

p
1 12
2
2
= 1367.38
(5 + 112) = 5 + 12 tan
5
When determining square roots two solutions result.
To obtain the second solution one way is to
express 1367.38 also as 13(67.38 + 360 ), i.e.
13427.38 . When the angle is divided by 2 an angle
less than 360 is obtained.
Hence
p

52 + 122 = 1367.38 and 13427.38

= [1367.38 ]1/2 and [13427.38 ]1/2

= 131/2 21 67.38 and

131/2 21 427.38

= 1333.69 and 13213.69

3. Convert (3 j) into polar form and hence

evaluate (3 j)7 , giving the answer in polar
form.

[ 10 18.43 , 3162 129 ]

In Problems 4 to 7, express in both polar and
rectangular forms:

Section 6

4. (6 + j5)3
5. (3 j8)5

[476.4119.42 , 234 + j415]

[45 53012.78 , 44 400 + j10 070]

6. (2 + j7)4
7. (16 j9)6

[280963.78 , 1241 + j2520]

(38.27 106 )176.15 ,

106 (38.18 + j2.570)

= 3.6133.69 and 3.61213.69

Thus, in polar form, the two roots are: 3.6133.69
and 3.61146.31

1333.69 =

13( cos 33.69 + j sin 33.69 )

= 3.0 + j2.0

13213.69 = 13( cos 213.69 + j sin 213.69 )

= 3.0 j2.0
Thus, in Cartesian form the two roots are:
(3.0 + j2.0)
Imaginary axis

36.3

Roots of complex numbers

j2

The square root of a complex number is determined by

letting n = 21 in De Moivres theorem,
i.e.

1
r = [r]1/2 = r 1/2 = r
2
2

There are two square roots of a real number, equal in

size but opposite in sign.
Problem 3. Determine the two square roots of the
complex number (5 + j12) in polar and Cartesian
forms and show the roots on an Argand diagram

3.61
33.69

213.69

3 Real axis
3.61
j2

Figure 36.1

From the Argand diagram shown in Fig. 36.1 the two

roots are seen to be 180 apart, which is always true
when finding square roots of complex numbers.

De Moivres theorem 327

In general, when finding the nth root of complex number, there are n solutions. For example, there are three
solutions to a cube root, five solutions to a fifth root,
and so on. In the solutions to the roots of a complex
number, the modulus, r, is always the same, but the
arguments, , are different. It is shown in Problem 3
that arguments are symmetrically spaced on an Argand
360
diagram and are
apart, where n is the number of the
n
roots required. Thus if one of the solutions to the cube
roots of a complex number is, say, 520 , the other two
360
, i.e. 120 from
roots are symmetrically spaced
3
this root, and the three roots are 520 , 5140 and
5260 .

Hence

(5 + j3)]1/2 = 2.41515.48 and

2.415195.48 or
(2.327 + j0.6446)

Problem 5. Express the roots of (14 + j3)2/5

in polar form

(14 + j3) =
(14 + j3)2/5 =

205167.905

2052/5 25 167.905

= 0.344967.164 or

(5 + j3) =

3430.96

Applying de Moivres theorem:

(5 + j3)1/2 =

1/2 1
34 2 30.96

= 2.41515.48

or

2.41515 29

The second root may be obtained as shown above, i.e.

360
having the same modulus but displaced
from the
2
first root.
Thus,

(5 + j3)1/2 = 2.415(15.48 + 180 )

= 2.415195.48

In rectangular form:

0.344967 10
There are five roots to this complex number,

1
1
2/5
x
= 2/5 =
5 2
x
x
The roots are symmetrically displaced from one another
360
, i.e. 72 apart round an Argand diagram.
5
Thus the required roots are 0.344967 10 ,
0.34494 50 , 0.344976 50 , 0.3449148 50 and
0.3449220 50 .
Now try the following exercise
Exercise 133 Further problems on the
roots of complex numbers
In Problems 1 to 3 determine the two square roots
of the given complex numbers in Cartesian form
and show the results on an Argand diagram.
1. (a) 1 + j

2.41515.48 = 2.415 cos 15.48

+ j2.415 sin 15.48

2. (a) 3 j4

= 2.327 + j0.6446
and

2.415195.48 = 2.415 cos 195.48

+ j2.415 sin 195.48
= 2.327 j0.6446

3. (a) 760

(b) j

(a) (1.099 + j0.455)

(b) (0.707 + j0.707)

(b) 1 j2

(a) (2 j)
(b) (0.786 j1.272)
3
(b) 12
2

(a) (2.291 + j1.323)

(b) (2.449 + j2.449)

Section 6

Problem 4. Find the roots of (5 + j3)]1/2 in

rectangular form, correct to 4 significant figures

328 Engineering Mathematics

In Problems 4 to 7, determine the moduli and
arguments of the complex roots.
4. (3 + j4)1/3

Moduli 1.710, arguments 17.71 ,

137.71 and 257.71

5. (2 + j)1/4

Moduli 1.223, arguments 38.36 ,

128.36 , 218.36 and 308.36
6.

(6 j5)1/2

Moduli 2.795, arguments

109.90 , 289.90

Section 6

7. (4 j3)2/3

Moduli 0.3420, arguments 24.58 ,

144.58 and 264.58

8. For a transmission line, the characteristic

impedance Z0 and the propagation coefficient
are given by:
s
R + jL
Z0 =
and
G + jC
p
= (R + jL)(G + jC)
Given R = 25 , L = 5 103 H,
G = 80 106 S, C = 0.04 106 F and
= 2000 rad/s, determine, in polar form,
Z0 and .

Z0 = 390.210.43 ,
= 0.102961.92