Complex Number Calculations
Overview
DreamCalc handles complex numbers naturally, and all mathematical functions support complex numbers where
applicable. Where real solutions exist, these will be returned in preference to a complex result. You should
bear in mind that where complex solutions exist, however, the result returned by DreamCalc may be one of many
possible solutions.
If complex numbers are not required, they may be disabled using from the Options Window.
In this case, DreamCalc will prevent complex input and will show an error where the result of any calculation is complex.
Complex Input
Use the semi-colon key [;] to separate between real and imaginary components when entering complex
values. When keying in a negative component value, use the [+/(-)] key, as demonstrated below.
Example:
5 [;] 3 (input 5 + 3i)
[+]
23 [;] [+/(-)] 2 (use [+/(-)] for negative input)
[ENTER]
Displays: 28 + 1i
There is no need to enter parentheses around complex input as DreamCalc treats complex values as single
entities (parentheses will automatically be shown around complex values).
Copying & Pasting Complex Values
DreamCalc supports copying and pasting of complex numbers via the clipboard and can store complex values in
memory registers.
Example: Copy & paste a complex value.
As a demonstration, select and copy the following string into your clipboard with CTRL-C.
33 - 3i
Now in DreamCalc, press CTRL-V and the complex value should appear on screen. When pasting complex values,
ensure that the imaginary component follows the real component and is suffixed with "i". It is not necessary to
copy braces around the complex value.
See also: Solving Polynomials
