Using complex numbers.

[zerodish]

When I came across the idea I had a bit of difficulty understanding it. I now know why the problem solved itself. Starting with the basics here the general idea is current equals force divided by resistance. In Englisgh units this is amps equals volts divided by ohms. For some reason electricians chose to use the French abbreviation for English units I=E/R which causes endless head aches for learners. The equation does not work for alternating current because energy is temporally stored in electric and magnetic fields. You could write a new equation to take this into account with out using complex numbers but it would be too complex for the average worker to deal with in the field. Heavyside came up with the idea for complex numbers as a shortcut for electricians. Heavyside was deaf and he didn't talk to people because it was too much trouble for him. So people would give him a written problem he would then disappear. If he could solve the problem He would return the written answer. Just keep in mind this is just a short cut and does not involve electrons moving in imaginary directions. If you are interested complex numbers also show up in suspension engineering as an overdamped oscillation. Again your shock absorbers are not moving in an imaginary direction it is just a short hand.