In other words, if x and y are complex (each have the form a+bi), show that x^y can have a real value, or prove that it is impossible.

Note: i is the imaginary value defined as the number that yields -1 when squared. a and b are any real numbers, but b is not 0.

Yes. This is tradition. If you want to be super clear you say b is not 0 in a+bi, like in the note that is part of the problem statement.

Posted by Richard on 2003-11-27 00:32:18