Multiply Complex Numbers Game


 

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Multiplying complex numbers is very similar to multiplying two binomials in algebra (like (x + 2)(x + 3)). The primary difference is the special rule for the imaginary unit: i2 = -1. To multiply complex numbers effectively, most people use the FOIL method.
 




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Multiply Complex Numbers Game
The Multiply Complex Numbers Game is an interactive math trainer designed to help students master the FOIL method and the unique property of the imaginary unit: i2 = -1.
Scroll down the page for a more detailed explanation.
 
Check out these other Complex Numbers games:
Powers of i
Add & Subtract Complex Numbers
Multiply Complex Numbers
Divide Complex Numbers
 


 

How to play the “Multiply Complex Numbers Game”

  1. Starting the Game
    When you first open the game, you are presented with a Difficulty Menu:
    Easy Mode: Uses coefficients between 1 and 4. This is best for beginners to practice the FOIL steps without getting overwhelmed by large multiplication tables.
    Hard Mode: Uses coefficients up to 10. This challenges your ability to track negative signs and larger sums simultaneously.

  2. Solving a Problem
    Once the game starts, a multiplication problem like (3 + 2i) × (1 - 4i) appears at the top. To find the correct answer, you follow these steps:
    Distribute (FOIL): Multiply the terms.
    First: 3 × 1 = 3
    Outer: 3 × -4i = -12i
    Inner: 2i × 1 = 2i
    Last: 2i × -4i = -8i2

    Simplify i2: Remember that i2 = -1, so the “Last” term becomes: -8 × -1 = +8.
    Combine: Group the real parts (3 + 8 = 11) and the imaginary parts (-12i + 2i = -10i).

  3. Making Your Choice
    You will see four possible answers in a grid.
    Select the match: Click the button you believe is correct.
    Instant Feedback: If you are right, the button turns Orange and a high-pitched chord plays. If you are wrong, the button turns Red and a low-pitched tone sounds.
    The Blank Space: Once you click, the correct answer fills in the “blue line” space to confirm the result.

  4. Using the “Show Steps” 🔍 Button
    If you get a problem wrong (or even if you got it right but aren’t sure why), click the Show Steps button. A breakdown will appear showing:
    The result of each FOIL letter (F, O, I, L).
    The explicit conversion of the i2 term.
    How those numbers summed up to the final result.

  5. Progression
    Score Tracking: Your current score (Correct/Total) is displayed in the top right corner.
    Next Problem: After a selection is made, the “Next Problem” button appears to generate a fresh equation.
    Main Menu: You can return to the menu at any time to switch difficulties.
     

This video gives a clear, step-by-step approach to how to multiply complex numbers.


 

Try out our new and fun Fraction Concoction Game.

Add and subtract fractions to make exciting fraction concoctions following a recipe. There are four levels of difficulty: Easy, medium, hard and insane. Practice the basics of fraction addition and subtraction or challenge yourself with the insane level.

Fraction Concoction Game



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