Why exactally does the absolute value of -3+4i = 5. I know (-3) squared plus (4i) squared = 5? Could you include a graphic approach as well? Thank you.

Question

Why exactally does the absolute value of -3+4i = 5.  I know (-3) squared plus (4i) squared = 5?  Could you include a graphic approach as well?  Thank you.

bobpursley · Answer

i is an imaginary number. YOu can graph it only on the complex number plane.

Consider a rectangular graph, the x axis is the real numbers, and the y axis is imaginary numbers. THen you plot the point (-3,4). Find the distance from the origin, it is 5.