imaginary number
An "imaginary number" is a mathematical concept used to extend the real number system, enabling the representation of quantities that cannot be expressed using only real numbers.
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Definition
C1Complex Analysis
(technical, academic)A value in the form of a real number multiplied by the imaginary unit, which is the square root of -1.
Example
- The square root of -1 is an imaginary number.
B2Mathematics
(technical, academic)A number that, when squared, results in a negative real number.
Example
- Imaginary numbers are used to solve equations that have no real solutions.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "imaginary number":