Kumar's Maths

Revision

n
io
is
Further Pure 1 ev
R
hs

Complex numbers
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 1

 Further Pure 1
Complex Numbers
The EDEXCEL syllabus says that candidates should:

a) understand the idea of a complex number, recall the meaning of the terms real part, imaginary part,
modulus, argument, conjugate, and use the fact that two complex numbers are equal if and only if both real
and imaginary parts are equal;
b) be able to carry out operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of two complex
numbers;
c) be able to use the result that, for a polynomial equation with real coefficients, any non-real roots occur in
conjugate pairs;

n
d) be able to represent complex numbers geometrically by means of an Argand diagram, and understand the

io
geometrical effects of conjugating a complex number and of adding and subtracting two complex numbers;

is
e) find the two square roots of a complex number;

ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 2

Section 1: Introduction to complex numbers
Suppose we wished to solve the quadratic equation x 2 + 4 x + 5 =0.
Using the quadratic formula, the solutions would be:
−4 ± 42 − 4 × 1 × 5 −4 ± −4
=x = .
2 2
We notice a problem however since −4 is not a real number. So the equation x 2 + 4 x + 5 =0 does not
have any real roots.

However, suppose we introduced the symbol i to represent −1 . We could then find expressions for the
solutions of the quadratic:
−4 ± −4 −4 ± 4 × −1 −4 ± 2i

n
= x = = .
2 2 2

io
So the equation has two solutions: x = -2 + i or x = -2 – i.

is
These two solutions are called complex numbers.

ev
1.1 Some definitions
Suppose that z is a complex number. Let z = a + ib.
The real part of z, written Re(z), is a.
R
The imaginary part of z, written Im(z), is b.
hs
The complex conjugate of z, written z* or z , is z* = a – ib.
at

Example 1: Let z = 5 – 2i, w = -2 + i and u = 7i.

Then:
Re(z) = 5 Im(z) = -2 z* = 5 + 2i
M

Re(w) = -2 Im(w) = 1 w* = -2 – i.
Re(u) = 0 Im(u) = 7 u* = -7i.
's

1.2 Solving quadratic equations

ar

Example 2: Solve the quadratic equation 2 x 2 + 4 x + 5 =

m

0 , giving your answers as complex

numbers in surd form.
Ku

Solution: Using the quadratic formula:

−4 ± 16 − 4 × 2 × 5 −4 ± −24
=x =
4 4
−4 ± i 24 −4 ± 2 6 i
= =
4 4
So the solutions are x =−1 + 2
6
i or x =−1 − 2
6
i.

Notice that the two solutions are complex conjugates of each other. The solutions form a
conjugate pair. This leads to this very important result:

Consider the equation ax 2 + bx + c =0 where a, b and c are real numbers. If the equation has
complex roots, then the two roots are always conjugates of each other.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 3

Note: If a quadratic equation has any complex coefficients then this result doesn’t apply.

Example: If z = 1 - i is one solution of the quadratic equation z 2 − 2 z + 2 =0 , then the second

solution must be the complex conjugate (as the quadratic has real coefficients). So the second
solution is z = 1 + i.

Section 2: Calculating with complex numbers

2.1 Adding and subtracting
Two complex numbers are added or subtracted by collecting together their real and imaginary parts.
So

n
( x + iy ) + (u + iv) = ( x + u ) + i ( y + v)

io
and
( x + iy ) − (u + iv) = ( x − u ) + i ( y − v)

is
We can also easily multiply a complex number by a real number:

ev
k ( x + iy ) = kx + iky

Example: If z = 4 + 2i and w = 3 – i, then

R
hs
z + w = (4 + 2i) + (3 – i) = 7 + i

z – w = (4 + 2i) – (3 – i) = 1 + 3i (being careful with the negative signs!)

at

3z + 2w = 3(4 + 2i) + 2(3 – i) = (12 + 6i) + (6 – 2i) = 18 + 4i

M

2w – z* = 2(3 – i) – (4 – 2i) = (6 – 2i) – (4 – 2i) = 2

's

2.2 Multiplying
ar

Complex numbers can be multiplied using the general method for expanding brackets.
m

Examples:
(2 + 5i)(4 – 3i) = 8 – 6i + 20i – 15i2 Remember: i2 = -1
Ku

= 8 – 6i + 20i – 15(-1)
= 23 + 14i

(3 + 2i)2 = (3 + 2i)(3 + 2i) = 9 + 6i + 6i + 4i2

= 9 + 12i + 4(-1)
= 5 + 12i

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 4

2.3 Dividing
To divide complex conjugates, you multiply through by the complex conjugate of the denominator:

Example: If z = 3 – i and w = 1 – 2i, then

3−i
z÷w=
1 − 2i
3 − i 1 + 2i
= × (as the complex conjugate of w is w* = 1 + 2i)
1 − 2i 1 + 2i
3 + 6i − i − 2i 2 3 + 5i − 2(−1)
= = (as i2 = -1)
1 + 2i − 2i − 4i 2 1 − 4(−1)
5 + 5i
=

n
5
Therefore:

io
z ÷ w =1 + i

is
Note: When a complex number is multiplied by its complex conjugate the answer is always purely

ev
a real number.
To show this, suppose z = x + iy.
Then zz* = (x + iy)(x – iy) = x2 – 2ixy + 2ixy –i2y2 R
= x2 + y2
hs
Worked examination question:
a) Express in the form a + ib,
(i) (3 + i)2
at

(ii) (2 + 4i)(3 + i).

b) The quadratic equation
M

z 2 − (2 + 4i ) z + 8i − 6 =0
has roots z1 and z 2 .
's

i) Verify that z1 = 3 + i is a root of the equation.

ii) By considering the coefficients of the quadratic, write down the sum of the roots;
ar

iii) Explain why z1*, the complex conjugate of z1, is not a root of the quadratic;
iv) Find the other root, z2, in the form a + ib.
m

Solution:
Ku

a) (i) (3 + i)2 = (3 + i)(3 + i) = 9 + 3i + 3i + i2

= 9 + 6i – 1 = 8 + 6i Remember: i2 = -1

(ii) (2 + 4i)(3 + i) = 6 + 2i + 12i + 4i2

= 6 + 14i – 4 = 2 + 14i

b) (i) We substitute z = 3 + i into the expression z 2 − (2 + 4i ) z + 8i − 6 to check that it gives

an answer of 0.
(3 + i)2 – (2 + 4i)(3 + i) + 8i - 6
= 8 + 6i – (2 + 14i) + 8i – 6 (using the results from (a))
= 8 + 6i – 2 – 14i + 8i – 6
= 0 + 0i = 0 (as required)

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 5

 (ii) In a quadratic equation, the sum of roots is given by the expression –b/a.
So here the sum of the roots is (2 + 4i) (since b = -(2 + 4i) and a = 1)

(iii) In a quadratic equation with real coefficients, any complex roots form a conjugate
pair. However, this quadratic does not have real coefficients so the roots are not
complex conjugates of each other.

(iv) From (ii), z1 + z2 = 2 + 4i

So 3 + i + z2 = 2 + 4i
i.e. z2 = 2 + 4i – (3 + i) = -1 + 3i.

Examination Question:
1+ i
Given that z = , find z in the form a + ib.

n
1 − 2i

io
is
ev
R
hs

Examination Question 2:
at

z1 =−3 + 4i z2 = 1 + 2i
z1
each in the form a + ib, where a, b ∈  .
M

Express z1 z2 and
z2
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 6

Examination Question 3:
The complex numbers z and w are such that
z =−2 + 5i = 14 + 23i
zw
Find w in the form p + qi, where p and q are real.

n
io
Examination Question 4:
Given that z =−2 + 2 3i , show that z2 + 4z is real.

is
ev
R
hs
at
M

Examination Question 5
(a) Show that (3 – i)2 = 8 – 6i.
's

(b) The quadratic equation

az2 + bz + 10i = 0,
ar

where a and b are real, has a root 3 – i.

m

(i) Show that a = 3 and find the value of b.

(ii) Determine the other root of the equation, giving your answer in the form p + iq.
(Hint for (ii): Use the fact that the sum of the roots in any quadratic is –b/a).
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 7

2.4 Equivalence of two complex numbers
Two complex numbers are equal to each other if and only if their real parts are equal and their
imaginary parts are equal, i.e

If z = x + iy and w = u + iv, then z = w if and only if x = u and y = v.

2.5 Solving linear equations with complex coefficients

Linear equations can be solved by substituting z = x + iy.

Example 1: Solve 4z – 2 + 5i = 6 – 7i

Solution: Let z = x + iy.

Then: 4(x + iy) – 2 + 5i = 6 – 7i

n
4x + 4iy – 2 + 5i = 6 – 7i (expanding bracket)

io
(4x – 2) + (4y + 5)i = 6 – 7i
Therefore, comparing real and imaginary parts:

is
4x – 2 = 6 i.e. x = 2
4y + 5 = -7 i.e. y = -3

ev
So the solution to the original equation must be z = 2 – 3i.

Example 2: Find z when 2z - 5z* = 9 + 14i.

R
hs
Solution: Let z = x + iy. Then z* = x – iy.
So:
2(x + iy) – 5(x – iy) = 9 + 14i
at

2x + 2iy – 5x + 5iy = 9 + 14i

i.e. -3x + 7iy = 9 + 14i.
M

Comparing real and imaginary parts, we see that x = -3 and y = 2.

So the solution is z = -3 + 2i.
's
ar

Example 3: Solve (4 + 2i)z + (3 – 2i) = 9 – 4i

m

Solution: Write z = x + iy.

Then (4 + 2i )( x + iy ) + (3 − 2i ) =9 − 4i
Ku

So (4 x + 4iy + 2ix + 2i 2 y ) + (3 − 2i ) =9 − 4i
i.e. (4 x − 2 y + 4iy + 2ix) + (3 − 2i ) =9 − 4i (using i2 = -1)

Collecting the real and imaginary terms together on the left hand side:
(4 x − 2 y + 3) + i (4 y + 2 x − 2) =9 − 4i
Comparing real and imaginary parts on both sides, we get the equations:
4x – 2y + 3 = 9 i.e. 4x – 2y = 6 or 2x – y = 3 (1)
and 4y + 2x – 2 = -4 i.e. 2x + 4y = -2 or x + 2y = -1 (2)

Equations (1) and (2) can be solved simultaneously:

5x = 5 (2×(1) + (2))
i.e. x=1
From equation (1), y = 2x – 3 = 2 – 3 = -1.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 8

Therefore the solution to the equation is z = 1 – i.

Alternative solution:
The equation to be solved is (4 + 2i)z + (3 – 2i) = 9 – 4i
So … (4 + 2i)z = (9 – 4i) – (3 -2i)
= 6 - 2i
Therefore
6 − 2i 6 − 2i 4 − 2i
= =z ×
4 + 2i 4 + 2i 4 − 2i
24 − 12i − 8i − 4 20 − 20i
So =z =
16 + 4 20
This gives the solution z=1-i

n
io
Worked examination style question
It is given that z = x + iy and that z* is the complex conjugate of z.

is
a) Express 2z – 3z* in the form p + qi.
b) Find the value of z for which 2z – 3z* = -5 + 15i

ev
Solution:
R
If z = x + iy, then z* = x – iy.
hs

a) So 2z – 3z* = 2(x + iy) – 3(x – iy) = 2x + 2iy – 3x + 3iy = -x + 5iy.

at

b) If 2z – 3z* = -5 + 15i
then …. -x + 5iy = -5 + 15i
M

So … x = 5 and y = 3.
's

Examination style question:

ar

Given that (3 – 2i)(x + 5i) = y + 11i

where x and y are real numbers:
a) find two equations for x and y;
m

b) find the values of x and y.

Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 9

Examination Question 1
It is given that z = x + iy and that z* is the complex conjugate of z.
a) Express z + 2z* in the form p + qi.
b) Find the value of z for which z + 2z* = 9 + 2i.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 10

Examination Question 2:
It is given that z = x + iy, where x and y are real numbers.
a) Write down, in terms of x and y, an expression for z*, the complex conjugate of z.
b) Find, in terms of x and y, the real and imaginary parts of
2z – iz*
c) Find the complex number z such that
2z – iz* = 3i.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs

Examination question 3:
(a) (i) Calculate (2 + i 5)( 5 − i ) .
at

(ii) Hence verify that 5 − i is a root of the equation

(2 + i 5) z =
M

3z *
where z* is the complex conjugate of z.
's

(b) The quadratic equation

x2 + px + q = 0
ar

in which the coefficients p and q are real, has a complex root 5 − i .

m

(i) Write down the other root of the equation.

(ii) Find the sum and the product of the two roots of the equation.
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 11

Examination question 4:
Solve the simultaneous equations
iz + 2x = 1
z – (1 + i)w = i
giving your answers for z and w in the form a + ib.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 12

2.6 Finding the square root of a complex number
One particular more difficult problem that occasionally occurs in FP1 examinations is to find the
square root of a complex number. You should be prepared in case it comes up in your exam!!

Example: Find the square roots of 9 – 12i.

Solution: Let a + bi be a square root of 9 – 12i, where a and b are real numbers.
Then (a + bi)2 = 9 – 12i.
So:
(a + bi)(a + bi) = 9 – 12i
i.e. a2 + abi + abi + b2i2 = 9 – 12i
i.e. a2 – b2 + 2abi = 9 – 12i.

n
Comparing real and imaginary parts, we get two equations:
a2 – b2 = 9 

io
and ab = -6 

is
−6
From equation , we get b = .

ev
a
2
 −6 
Substituting this into  gives: a2 −   = 9 R
 a 
36
i.e. a2 − 2 = 9
hs
a
i.e. a 4 − 36 =
9a 2
or a4 – 9a2 – 36 = 0
at

This is a quadratic equation in a2. It can be factorised:

M

(a2 – 12)(a2 + 3) = 0
2 2
So a = 12 or a = -3.
's

As a is real, we must have a =

± 12 =
±2 3 .
ar

−6 −6
If a = 2 3, then b = = = − 3.
m

a 2 3
−6 −6
If a =
−2 3, then b = = = 3.
Ku

a −2 3

Therefore the square roots of 9 – 12i are 2 3 − 3i and −2 3 + 3i .

Note: All questions about finding the square root of a complex number can be solved using the
same method.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 13

Examination question:
Find the roots of the equation z2 = 21 – 20i.

Hint: Remember to put z = a + bi.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 14

Section 3: Argand Diagrams
3.1 Representing complex numbers on Argand diagrams
Complex numbers can be shown on an Argand diagram. The horizontal axis represents the real part
of the complex number whilst the vertical axis represents the imaginary part.

Example:
Plot the complex numbers z1 = 4 + 2i, z2 = 3 – i, z3 = -2 + 3i, z4 = -1 – 3i and z5 = i on an Argand
diagram.
imaginary axis
3
z3

n
2 z1

io
z5
1

is
– 2 – 1 1 2 3 4 real axis

ev
– 1
z2
– 2
R
– 3
hs
z4

Example 2: Let z = 3 – 4i. Show z and z* on an Argand diagram.

at

Solution: z* = 3 + 4i.
M

imaginary axis
3 z*
's

2
ar

1
m

real axis
Ku

1 2 3 4 5
– 1

– 2

– 3 z

Note: In an Argand diagram, z* is a reflection of z in the real axis.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 15

Example 3: Let z = 3 + 4i and w = 2 – 2i. Show z, w and z + w on an Argand diagram.

Solution: z + w = 5 + 2i.

Imaginary
z
4

2 z+w

n
o Real
1 2 3 4 5

io
– 1

is
– 2

ev
w

Notice that the points representing the origin, z, w and z + w form a parallelogram.
R
General result: If complex numbers z, w and z + w are represented by points Z, W and S in an
hs
Argand diagram, then OZSW is a parallelogram.

Example 4:
at

Let z = 3 + 4i and w = 2 – 2i. Show z, w and z - w on an Argand diagram.

M

Solution: z – w = 1 + 6i.
Imaginary
z-w
's

6
ar

z
4
m
Ku

0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 3 Real

– 2
w

Notice this general result: If the complex numbers z and w are represented in an Argand diagram
by points Z and W, then the translation which takes W to Z represents the complex number z – w.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 16

Examination question:
z1
Given that z1 = 1 + 2i and z2= 3
5
+ 54 i , write z1z2 and in the form p + iq, where p, q ∈  .
z2
z1
Plot the points representing z1 , z2 , z1 z2 and
on an Argand diagram.
z2
z
In the diagram, the origin and the points representing z1 z2 , 1 , z3 are the vertices of a rhombus.
z2
Find z3 and sketch the rhombus on this Argand diagram.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 17

3.2 Modulus and argument of a complex number
Consider the complex number z = a + ib:

Imaginary

b z = a + ib

|z|

arg(z) Real

n
a

io
is
The modulus of z, written |z|, is the distance of z from the origin.

ev
Therefore: =
|z| a 2 + b2 .
R
The argument of a complex number z is the angle that the line joining O to z makes with the
positive real axis. Anticlockwise rotation is positive and clockwise rotation is negative. The
hs
argument is usually measured in radians and is chosen so that -π < arg(z) ≤ π.

Example: Find the modulus and argument of these complex numbers:

at

a) 2 + 7i
b) 5 – 2i
M

c) -4 + 3i
d) -2 – 3i
's

e) -5
f) 3i
ar

Solution: It helps to sketch an Argand diagram in each case:

m

a) | 2 + 7i | = 22 + 7 2 =53 Imaginary
Ku

arg(2 + 7i) is angle θ in the diagram: 7

7
tan θ =
2 θ
θ = 1.29 radians
Real
i.e. 2

Imaginary
b) | 5 - 2i | = 52 + (−2) 2 = 29

arg(5 - 2i) is shown by angle θ in the diagram. 5 Real

θ
2
tan θ = ⇒ θ = 0.381
5 -2
i.e. θ = -0.381 radians (it is negative as the number is
below the axis).

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 18

c) | - 4 + 3i | = (−4) 2 + 32 =
5
Imaginary

arg(-4 + 3i) is the angle shown on the diagram. 3

To find it, it is easiest to first find angle a: arg(z)

a Real
tan(a ) = 34 ⇒ a = 0.644 -4
Therefore, arg(-4 + 3i) = π – 0.644 = 2.50 radians.

Imaginary

d) |-2 – 3i| = (−2) 2 + (−3) 2 = 13 Real

-2 a arg(z)

arg(-2 – 3i) is the angle shown on the diagram. As -2-3i is

-3
below the real axis, the argument will be negative.

n
It is simplest to initially find angle a:

io
tan(a ) = 32 ⇒ a = 0.983
π – 0.983 = 2.16 radians.

is
Therefore arg(-2 – 3i) = -2.16 radians. Imaginary

ev
e) |-5| = 5 3
arg(-5) = π rads R Real
-5
f) |3i| = 3
arg(3i) = ½ π rads
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 19

Section 4: Mixed complex numbers questions
Worked examination style question:
The complex number 2 + 5i is one root of the equation x 2 + px + q =0 , where p and q are real.
a) Write down the second root of this equation.
b) Find the values of p and q.

Solution:
a) As the quadratic equation has real coefficients, the second root must be the complex conjugate of
the first, i.e. 2 – 5i.

b) We know that the sum of the roots is given by –b/a = -p.

n
But the sum of the roots is (2 + 5i) + (2 – 5i) = 4.
Therefore –p = 4 i.e. p = -4.

io
The product of the roots is c/a = q.

is
But the product of the roots is (2 + 5i)(2 – 5i) = 4 – 10i + 10i + 25 = 29.

ev
So q = 29.

Examination question (OCR January 2005): R

(i) The complex number z is such that z 2 = 1 + i 3 . Find the two possible values of z in the form
a + ib, where a and b are exact real numbers.
hs
(ii) With the value of z from part (i) such that the real part of z is positive, show on an Argand
diagram the points A and B representing z and z2 respectively.
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 20

Examination question (OCR May 2005):
The complex numbers z1 and z2 are such that z1 = 1 – i and z2 =
− 3 +i.
z1
(i) Find in the form x + iy, where x and y are exact real numbers.
z2
(i) Find the exact modulus and argument (in terms of π) of z1 and z2.

n
io
is
ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 21

 Self-review:
Syllabus Self-review   
Understand the idea of a complex number, recall
the meaning of the terms real part, imaginary
part, modulus, argument, conjugate, and use the
fact that two complex numbers are equal if and
only if both real and imaginary parts are equal;
Carry out operations of addition, subtraction,
multiplication and division of two complex
numbers;
Be able to use the result that, for a polynomial
equation with real coefficients, any non-real
roots occur in conjugate pairs;
Represent complex numbers geometrically by

n
means of an Argand diagram, and understand

io
the geometrical effects of conjugating a complex
number and of adding and subtracting two

is
complex numbers;
Find the two square roots of a complex number;

ev
R
hs
at
M
's
ar
m
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 22

 Edexcel Past examination questions
z
1. Given that z = 22 + 4i and = 6 – 8i, find
w

(a) w in the form a + bi, where a and b are real,

(3)
(b) the argument of z, in radians to 2 decimal places.
(2)

[P4 January 2002 Qn 1]

2. Given that 2 + i is a root of the equation

z2 + bz + c = 0, where b and c are real constants,

n
(i) write down the other root of the equation,

io
(ii) find the value of b and the value of c.
(5)

is
ev
[*P4 January 2002 Qn 5]
3. Given that z = 3 + 4i and w = −1 + 7i, R
(a) find w.
hs
(1)
The complex numbers z and w are represented by the points A and B on an Argand diagram.
at

(b) Show points A and B on an Argand diagram.

(1)
M

(c) Prove that △OAB is an isosceles right-angled triangle.

's

(5)
z
(d) Find the exact value of arg   .
ar

 w
(3)
m

[P4 June 2002 Qn 5]

Ku

4. Given that z = 3 – 3i express, in the form a + ib, where a and b are real numbers,

(a) z2,
(2)
1
(b) .
z
(2)
1
(c) Find the exact value of each of z,z2 and .
z
(2)

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 23

 1
The complex numbers z, z2 and are represented by the points A, B and C respectively on an
z
Argand diagram. The real number 1 is represented by the point D, and O is the origin.

(d) Show the points A, B, C and D on an Argand diagram.

(2)
(e) Prove that OAB is similar to OCD.
(3)
[P4 January 2003 Qn 6]
5. (a) Using that 3 is the real root of the cubic equation x3 – 27 = 0, show that the complex roots of
the cubic satisfy the quadratic equation x2 + 3x + 9 = 0.
(2)
(b) Hence, or otherwise, find the three cube roots of 27, giving your answers in the form

n
a + ib, where a, b ∈ ℝ.

io
(3)
(c) Show these roots on an Argand diagram.

is
(2)

ev
[P4 June 2003 Qn 3]
a + 3i
6. z= , a ∈ ℝ.
2 + ai R
(a) Given that a = 4, find |z|.
hs
(3)
π
at

(b) Show that there is only one value of a for which arg z = , and find this value.
4
(6)
M

[P4 June 2003 Qn 5]

7. Given that z = 2 – 2i and w = –√3 + i,
's

(a) find the modulus and argument of wz2.

ar

(6)
2
(b) Show on an Argand diagram the points A, B and C which represent z, w and wz respectively,
m

and determine the size of angle BOC.

(4)
Ku

[P4 January 2004 Qn 3]

8. The complex number z = a + ib, where a and b are real numbers, satisfies the equation

z2 + 16 − 30i = 0.

(a) Show that ab = 15.

(2)
(b) Write down a second equation in a and b and hence find the roots of

z2 + 16 − 30i = 0.
(4)
[P4 June 2004 Qn 3]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 24

 w
9. Given that z = 1 + √3i and that = 2 + 2i, find
z

(a) w in the form a + ib, where a, b ∈ ℝ,

(3)
(b) the argument of w,
(2)
(c) the exact value for the modulus of w.
(2)

On an Argand diagram, the point A represents z and the point B represents w.

(d) Draw the Argand diagram, showing the points A and B.

n
(2)

io
(e) Find the distance AB, giving your answer as a simplified surd.
(2)

is
ev
[P4 June 2004 Qn 5]
10. Given that z =
−2 √ 2 + 2 √ 2i and w = 1 – i√3, find

(a)
z
,
R
w
hs
(3)
z
(b) arg   .
at

 w
(3)
M

z
(c) On an Argand diagram, plot points A, B, C and D representing the complex numbers z, w,  
 w
's

and 4, respectively.
ar

(3)
(d) Show that ∠ AOC = ∠ DOB.
m

(2)
Ku

(e) Find the area of triangle AOC.

(2)
[FP1/P4 January 2005 Qn 8]
11. Given that −2 is a root of the equation z3 + 6z + 20 = 0,

(a) find the other two roots of the equation,

(3)
(b) show, on a single Argand diagram, the three points representing the roots of the equation,
(1)
(c) prove that these three points are the vertices of a right-angled triangle.
(2)

[FP1/P4 June 2005 Qn 2]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 25

12. z = –4 + 6i.

(a) Calculate arg z, giving your answer in radians to 3 decimal places.

(2)
A
The complex number w is given by w = , where A is a positive constant. Given that w = √20,
2−i

(b) find w in the form a + ib, where a and b are constants,

(4)
w
(c) calculate arg .
z
(3)
[FP1/P4 June 2005 Qn 5]
z + 2i

n
13. Given that = i, where λ is a positive, real constant,
z − λi

io
λ  λ 

is
(a) show that z =  + 1 + i  −1 .
2  2 

ev
(5)

Given also that arg z = arctan 1

2 , calculate R
(b) the value of λ,
hs
(3)
(c) the value of z2.
at

(2)
M

[FP1/P4 January 2006 Qn 3]

14. The complex numbers z and w satisfy the simultaneous equations
's

2z + iw = –1,
ar

z – w = 3 + 3i.
m

(a) Use algebra to find z, giving your answers in the form a + ib, where a and b are real.
(4)
Ku

(b) Calculate arg z, giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.

(2)
[FP1 June 2006 Qn 1]
15. (a) Find the roots of the equation
z 2 + 2 z + 17 =
0,

giving your answers in the form a + ib, where a and b are integers.
(3)
(b) Show these roots on an Argand diagram.
(1)

[FP1 January 2007 Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 26

16. The complex numbers z1 and z2 are given by

z1= 5 + 3i,
z1 = 1 + pi,
where p is an integer.

z2
(a) Find , in the form a + ib, where a and b are expressed in terms of p.
z1
(3)
z  π
Given that arg  2  = ,
 z1  4

n
(b) find the value of p.
(2)

io
is
[FP1 January 2007 Qn 3]
17. z = √3 – i.

ev
z* is the complex conjugate of z.

z 1 √3
R
(a) Show that = – i.
z∗
hs
2 2
(3)
at

z
(b) Find the value of .
z∗
M

(2)
z
(c) Verify, for z = √3 – i, that arg = arg z – arg z*.
's

z∗
(4)
ar

z
(d) Display z, z* and on a single Argand diagram.
z∗
m

(2)
Ku

(e) Find a quadratic equation with roots z and z* in the form ax2 + bx + c = 0, where a, b and c are
real constants to be found.
(2)

[FP1 June 2007 Qn 6]

1
18. Given that x = – is the real solution of the equation
2

2x3 – 11x2 + 14x + 10 = 0,

find the two complex solutions of this equation.

(6)

[FP1 January 2008 Qn 2]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 27

19. z = –2 + i.

(a) Express in the form a + ib

1
(i)
z

(ii) z2.
(4)
(b) Show that  z2 – z = 5√2.
(2)

(c) Find arg (z2 – z).

(2)

n
(d) Display z and z2 – z on a single Argand diagram.

io
(2)

is
[FP1 January 2008 Qn 6]

ev
20. (a) Write down the value of the real root of the equation

x3 – 64 = 0.
R (1)
3
hs
(b) Find the complex roots of x – 64 = 0 , giving your answers in the form a + ib, where a and b
are real.
(4)
at

(c) Show the three roots of x3 – 64 = 0 on an Argand diagram.

M

(2)

[FP1 June 2008 Qn 1]

's

21. The complex number z is defined by

ar

a + 2i
z= , a ∈ ℝ, a > 0 .
a−i
m

1
Given that the real part of z is , find
Ku

(a) the value of a,

(4)
(b) the argument of z, giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.
(3)

[FP1 June 2008 Qn 3]

3 2
22. f(x) = 2x – 8x + 7x – 3.

Given that x = 3 is a solution of the equation f(x) = 0, solve f(x) = 0 completely.

(5)

[FP1 Jan 2009 Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 28

 12 − 5i
23. Given that z1 = 3 + 2i and z 2 = ,
z1

(a) find z 2 in the form a + ib, where a and b are real.

(2)
(b) Show, on an Argand diagram, the point P representing z1 and the point Q representing z 2 .
(2)
π
(c) Given that O is the origin, show that ∠POQ = .
2
(2)

n
The circle passing through the points O, P and Q has centre C. Find

io
(d) the complex number represented by C,
(2)

is
(e) the exact value of the radius of the circle.

ev
(2)
[FP1 Jan 2009 Qn 9]

24. The complex numbers z1 and z 2 are given by

R
hs

z1 = 2 – i and z 2 = –8 + 9i
at

(a) Show z1 and z 2 on a single Argand diagram.

M

(1)

Find, showing your working,

's

(b) the value of z 1 ,

ar

(2)
m

(c) the value of arg z1 , giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places,
(2)
Ku

z2
(d) in the form a + bi, where a and b are real.
z1
(3)
[FP1 June 2009 Qn 1]

25. f(x) = (x2 + 4)(x2 + 8x + 25)

(a) Find the four roots of f(x) = 0.

(5)
(b) Find the sum of these four roots.
(2)
[FP1 June 2009 Qn 3]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 29

26. The complex numbers z1 and z 2 are given by

z1 = 2 + 8i and z2 = 1 – i

Find, showing your working,

z1
(a) in the form a + bi, where a and b are real,
z2
(3)
z1
(b) the value of ,
z2

n
(2)

io
z1
(c) the value of arg , giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.
z2

is
(2)

ev
[FP1 Jan 2010 Qn 1]

27. Given that 2 and 5 + 2i are roots of the equation

R
x3 − 12x2 + cx + d = 0,
hs
c, d ∈ℝ,

(a) write down the other complex root of the equation.

at

(1)
M

(b) Find the value of c and the value of d.

(5)
(c) Show the three roots of this equation on a single Argand diagram.
's

(2)
ar

[FP1 Jan 2010 Qn 6]

m

28. z = 2 – 3i
Ku

(a) Show that z2 = −5 −12i.

(2)

Find, showing your working,

(b) the value of z2,

(2)
(c) the value of arg (z2), giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.
(2)
(d) Show z and z2 on a single Argand diagram.
(1)
[FP1 June 2010 Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 30

29. f(x) = x3 + x2 + 44x + 150.

Given that f (x) = (x + 3)(x2 + ax + b), where a and b are real constants,

(a) find the value of a and the value of b.

(2)
(b) Find the three roots of f(x) = 0.
(4)
(c) Find the sum of the three roots of f (x) = 0.
(1)
[FP1 June 2010 Qn 4]

n
io
30. z = 5 – 3i, w = 2 + 2i

is
Express in the form a + bi, where a and b are real constants,

ev
(a) z2,
R (2)
z
(b) .
hs
w
(3)
[FP1 Jan 2011 Qn 1]
at

31. Given that 2 – 4i is a root of the equation

M

z2 + pz + q = 0,
's

where p and q are real constants,

ar

(a) write down the other root of the equation,

(1)
m

(b) find the value of p and the value of q.

Ku

(3)
[FP1 Jan 2011 Qn 4]

32. z = – 24 – 7i

(a) Show z on an Argand diagram.

(1)
(b) Calculate arg z, giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.
(2)

It is given that

w = a + bi, a ∈ ℝ, b ∈ ℝ.

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 31

 5π
Given also that w = 4 and arg w = ,
6
(c) find the values of a and b,
(3)
(d) find the value of zw.
(3)
[FP1 Jan 2011 Qn 7]
33. z1 = − 2 + i

(a) Find the modulus of z1 .

(1)
(b) Find, in radians, the argument of z1 , giving your answer to 2 decimal places.

n
(2)
The solutions to the quadratic equation

io
z2 − 10z + 28 = 0

is
are z 2 and z 3 .

ev
(c) Find z 2 and z 3 , giving your answers in the form p ± i√q, where p and q are integers.
R (3)
(d) Show, on an Argand diagram, the points representing your complex numbers z1 , z 2 and z 3 .
hs
(2)
[FP1 June 2011 Qn 2]
at

34. Given that z = x + iy, find the value of x and the value of y such that
M

z + 3iz* = −1 + 13i

where z* is the complex conjugate of z.

's

(7)
ar

[FP1 June 2011 Qn 6]

35. Given that z1 =1 − i,

m

(a) find arg ( z1 ).

Ku

(2)

Given also that z 2 = 3 + 4i, find, in the form a + ib, a, b ∈ ℝ,

(b) z1 z 2 ,
(2)
z2
(c) .
z1
(3)

In part (b) and part (c) you must show all your working clearly.
[FP1 Jan 2012 Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 32

36. The roots of the equation
z3 − 8z2 + 22z − 20 = 0
are z1 , z 2 and z 3 .
(a) Given that z1 = 3 + i, find z 2 and z 3 .
(4)
(b) Show, on a single Argand diagram, the points representing z1 , z 2 and z 3 .
(2)
[FP1 Jan 2012 Qn 5]
37. f(x) = 2x3 – 6x2 – 7x − 4.
(a) Show that f(4) = 0.
(1)

n
(b) Use algebra to solve f(x) = 0 completely.

io
(4)
[FP1 June 2012 Qn 1]

is
38. z = 2 − i√3.

ev
(a) Calculate arg z, giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places.
(2)
Use algebra to express R
(b) z + z2 in the form a + bi√3, where a and b are integers,
hs
(3)
z+7
in the form c + di√3, where c and d are integers.
at

(c)
z −1
(4)
M

Given that
w = λ – 3i,
's

π
where λ is a real constant, and arg (4 – 5i + 3w) = – ,
ar

2
(d) find the value of λ.
(2)
m

[FP1 June 2012 Qn 7]

50
Ku

39. z= .
3 + 4i
Find, in the form a + ib where a, b ∈ ℝ,

(a) z,
(2)
(b) z2.
(2)
Find

(c) z, (2)

(d) arg z2, giving your answer in degrees to 1 decimal place. (2)
[FP1 Jan 2013 Qn 2]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 33

40. f(x) = (4x2 + 9)(x2 − 6x + 34).
(a) Find the four roots of f (x) = 0.

Give your answers in the form x = p + iq , where p and q are real.

(5)
(b) Show these four roots on a single Argand diagram.
(2)
[FP1 Jan 2013 Qn 5]
1
41. Given that x = is a root of the equation
2
2x3 – 9x2 + kx – 13 = 0, k ∈

find

n
io
(a) the value of k,
(3)

is
(b) the other 2 roots of the equation.

ev
(4)
[FP1 June 2013 Qn 3]
42. z1 = 2 + 3i, z2 = 3 + 2i, z3 = a + bi,
R a, b ∈ 

(a) Find the exact value of |z1 + z2|.

hs
(2)
zz
Given that w = 1 3 ,
at

z2
(b) find w in terms of a and b, giving your answer in the form x + iy, x, y ∈  .
M

(4)

17 7
− i,
's

Given also that w =

13 13
ar

(c) find the value of a and the value of b,

(3)
m

(d) find arg w, giving your answer in radians to 3 decimal places.

Ku

(2)
[FP1 June 2013 Qn 7]
43. The complex numbers z and w are given by

z = 8 + 3i, w = –2i
Express in the form a + bi, where a and b are real constants,

(a) z – w,
(1)
(b) zw.
(2)
[FP1 June 2013_R Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 34

44. f(x) = (4x2 +9)(x2 – 2x + 5)

(a) Find the four roots of f(x) = 0.

(4)
(b) Show the four roots of f(x) = 0 on a single Argand diagram.
(2)
[FP1 June 2013_R Qn 4]
45. The complex number w is given by

w = 10 – 5i
(a) Find w .
(1)

n
io
(b) Find arg w, giving your answer in radians to 2 decimal places
(2)

is
The complex numbers z and w satisfy the equation

ev
(2 + i)(z + 3i) = w
R
(c) Use algebra to find z, giving your answer in the form a + bi,
where a and b are real numbers.
hs
(4)
Given that
π
at

arg(λ + 9i + w) =
4
where λ is a real constant,
M

(d) find the value of λ.

's

(2)
[FP1 June 2013_R Qn 9]
ar

46. The complex numbers z1 and z2 are given by

m

z1 = p + 2i and z2 = 1 – 2i
where p is an integer.
Ku

z1
(a) Find in the form a + bi where a and b are real. Give your answer in its simplest form in
z2
terms of p.
(4)
z1
Given that = 13 ,
z2

(b) find the possible values of p.

(4)
[FP1 June 2014 Qn 1]

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 35

47. Given that 2 and 1 – 5i are roots of the equation

x3 + px2 + 30x + q = 0, p, q ∈ 

(a) write down the third root of the equation.

(1)
(b) Find the value of p and the value of q.
(5)
(c) Show the three roots of this equation on a single Argand diagram.
(2)
[FP1 June 2014 Qn 3]

n
48. The roots of the equation

io
2z3 – 3z2 + 8z + 5 = 0

is
are z1, z2 and z3.

ev
Given that z1 = 1 + 2i, find z2 and z3.
R (5)
[FP1 June 2014_R Qn 1]

49. The complex number z is given by

hs

p + 2i
z=
at

3 + pi
M

where p is an integer.

(a) Express z in the form a + bi where a and b are real. Give your answer in its simplest form in
's

terms of p.
ar

(4)
(b) Given that arg(z) = θ, where tan θ = 1 find the possible values of p.
m

(5)
[FP1 June 2014_R Qn 4]
Ku

Further Pure 1 Complex Numbers Page 36