College Algebra Complex Numbers
Basic Definitions and Graphical Representation of Complex Numbers Interactive Example 1

Graphical Representation of Complex Numbers

It is natural to associate the complex number z = x + iy with a point in the plane whose rectangular coordinates are x and y. Each complex number corresponds to just one point, and conversely. The number z can also be thought of as the vector from the origin to the point (x, y). When used for the purpose of displaying the numbers z = x + iy geometrically, the xy-plane is called the complex plane, or the z- plane. The x axis is called the real axis, and the y axis is known as the imaginary axis.

Use scrollbars to move z and watch its position in the plane.

x |
y |

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