How to calculate an imaginary number to high exponent?

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How can I calculate something like $(i+1)^{33}$ or similar high exponent without the use of a calculator?

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1 Answer

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HINT

Euler's formula $$e^{i \theta} = \cos(\theta) + i \sin(\theta)$$ and recall that any complex number can be written as $x+iy = r e^{i \theta}$.

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We have $1+i = \sqrt2 e^{i\pi/4}$. Hence, $$(1+i)^{33} = (\sqrt2 e^{i \pi/4})^{33} = 2^{33/2} e^{i(33 \pi/4)} = 2^{33/2} e^{i \pi/4} = 2^{16}(1+i)$$

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