Forms both a:
- division algebra if thought of with complex multiplication as the bilinear map of the algebra
- field
Constructs the quaternions from complex numbers, octonions from quaternions, and keeps doubling like this indefinitely.
Kind of extends the complex numbers.
Some facts that make them stand out:
- one of the only three real associative division algebras in addition to the real numbers and complex numbers, according to the classification of associative real division algebras
- the simplest non-commutative division algebra. Contrast for example with complex numbers where multiplication is commutative
Unlike the quaternions, it is non-associative.
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A complex number is a number that can be expressed in the form \( a + bi \), where: - \( a \) and \( b \) are real numbers, - \( i \) is the imaginary unit, defined as \( i = \sqrt{-1} \). In this representation: - \( a \) is called the **real part** of the complex number, - \( b \) is called the **imaginary part** of the complex number.