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Mathematics · Ch 2 — Complex Numbers

Geometrical Representation of Conjugate of a Complex Number

2.4.1

Geometrical Representation of Conjugate of a Complex Number

The complex conjugate of zz is denoted z‾\overline z. To find the conjugate of zz, simply replace ii by −i-i throughout zz. For instance, 2−5i2-5i is the conjugate of 2+5i2+5i.

Key fact. The product of a complex number with its own conjugate is always a real number:

(x+iy)(x−iy)=x2+y2(real, and ≥0).(x+iy)(x-iy)=x^2+y^2\quad\text{(real, and }\ge0\text{)}.

For instance: (1+3i)(1−3i)=12+32=1+9=10(1+3i)(1-3i)=1^2+3^2=1+9=10.

Geometric picture. Since conjugation flips only the sign of yy, z‾\overline z is obtained from zz by reflecting zz across the real axis in the Argand plane — the point (x,y)(x,y) and its conjugate (x,−y)(x,-y) are mirror images through the xx-axis. …

Figure 2.14Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: $-2+3i$ and its conjugate $-2-3i$
Fig. 2.14 — Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: $-2+3i$ and its conjugate $-2-3i$

Drawn by us to help you understand the concept clearly, and verified to make sure it's accurate. For exams, practice from your textbook's own diagram.

What this figure shows. Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: −2+3i-2+3i and its conjugate $-2-3i …

Figure 2.15Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: $x+iy$ and its conjugate $x-iy$
Fig. 2.15 — Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: $x+iy$ and its conjugate $x-iy$

Drawn by us to help you understand the concept clearly, and verified to make sure it's accurate. For exams, practice from your textbook's own diagram.

What this figure shows. Conjugate as reflection on the real axis: x+iyx+iy and its conjugate $x-iy …