Conjugates
Definition
Conjugates are pairs of complex numbers or algebraic expressions that have the same real part but opposite signs for their imaginary parts. In algebra, conjugates are often used in rationalizing denominators or simplifying radical expressions.
Analogy
Conjugates are like mirror images with opposite characteristics. Just as mirror images reflect each other but have opposite orientations, conjugates have similar real parts but differ in sign for their imaginary parts.
Related terms
Rationalizing Denominator: The process of eliminating radicals from the denominator by multiplying both numerator and denominator by an appropriate conjugate.
Complex Numbers: Numbers that consist of both real and imaginary parts, usually expressed in the form a + bi, where "a" represents the real part and "bi" represents the imaginary part.
Radical Expressions: Expressions containing square roots or higher order roots (√x, ∛x) that cannot be simplified further without using radicals.
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