Imaginary numbers: An imaginary number is a number that is multiplied by the imaginary unit i, which is defined by its property i^2 = -1. The square of an imaginary number bi is -b^2. For example, 5i is an imaginary number, and its square is -25. Imaginary numbers are used in mathematics to solve equations that have no real solutions. They are also used in physics and engineering to describe phenomena such as electromagnetism and quantum mechanics. See also Quantum Mechanics._____________Annotation: The above characterizations of concepts are neither definitions nor exhausting presentations of problems related to them. Instead, they are intended to give a short introduction to the contributions below. – Lexicon of Arguments. |