Chapter 12: Problem 43
Use the fact that \(i^{4}=1\) to simplify each expression (as in Example \(5(b)]\). $$i^{26}$$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The simplified form of \(i^{26}\) is \(-1\).
Step by step solution
01
Understand the Power Cycle of i
The imaginary unit \(i\) has cyclical powers: \(i^1 = i\), \(i^2 = -1\), \(i^3 = -i\), \(i^4 = 1\), and then it repeats. This means every power of \(i\) can be reduced by recognizing patterns every four powers.
02
Determine the Remainder of the Exponent When Divided by 4
To simplify \(i^{26}\), we need to find the exponent modulo 4. The remainder of 26 divided by 4 determines the simplified form of \(i^{26}\). Calculate \(26 \div 4 = 6\) remainder 2. Therefore, \(26 \equiv 2 \mod 4\).
03
Simplify the Expression Using the Remainder
Since \(26 \equiv 2 \mod 4\), we have \(i^{26} = i^2\). Therefore, replace the expression with \(i^2\).
04
Apply the Simplification of i^2
From the powers of \(i\), we know that \(i^2 = -1\). Substitute \(-1\) in place of \(i^2\) based on known values.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Powers of i
The powers of the imaginary unit, denoted as \(i\), follow a unique cycle. Understanding this cycle becomes the key to simplifying expressions involving powers of \(i\). As you explore the power sequence of \(i\), you'll notice the repetition every four exponents:
- \(i^1 = i\)
- \(i^2 = -1\)
- \(i^3 = -i\)
- \(i^4 = 1\)
- And then, it repeats: \(i^5 = i, i^6 = -1, \) etc.
Complex Numbers
Complex numbers expand upon the concept of real numbers by including imaginary numbers. A complex number takes the form \(a + bi\), where \(a\) and \(b\) are real numbers, and \(i\) is the imaginary unit. This form allows for a rich set of mathematical properties and operations.
- **Real Part**: The real component \(a\), which lies along the horizontal axis in complex plane representation.
- **Imaginary Part**: The imaginary component \(bi\), represented along the vertical axis.
- **Conjugate**: A conjugate of a complex number \(a + bi\) is \(a - bi\), which reflects over the real axis.
Modular Arithmetic
In simplifying powers of \(i\), modular arithmetic plays a pivotal role. This system of arithmetic considers numbers differently by working with their remainders when divided by a modulus. In our example, the modulus is 4 due to the cyclical nature of \(i\)'s powers.
- **Concept**: When you divide a number by another (the modulus), the outcome focuses on the remainder rather than the quotient.
- **Application**: For \(i^{26}\), dividing 26 by 4 gives a remainder of 2, represented by \(26 \equiv 2 \mod 4\).
- **Result**: This calculation means \(i^{26}\) falls in the same category as \(i^2\) within the power cycle.