how can i factorise?
- Thread starter chandra21
- Start date
It is possible to factor x^2 + 1: \(\displaystyle (x - i)(x + i) = x^2 - ix + ix - (i^2) = x^2 - (-1) = x^2 + 1.\)
But obviously that factorization involves a complex number, not a real number.
So it is not possible to factor x^2 + 1 within the system of real numbers.
In the message above from Jeff, the words "complex number" is in blue. This is a link. Click it and you will be sent to a page where you can learn more about them.
In addition to the link discussed by Sir Mike, read http://mathforum.org/library/drmath/view/55747.html