Question:medium

If \[ z=i^i \] then \[ z^i= \]

Show Hint

For powers like \(i^i\), first convert complex number into exponential form.
Updated On: Jun 15, 2026
  • \(-i\)
  • \(i\)
  • 1
  • -1
Show Solution

The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Write i in exponential form.
We use $i=e^{i\pi/2}$, which lets us raise $i$ to any power cleanly.
Step 2: Compute z equal to i raised to i.
$z=i^i=\left(e^{i\pi/2}\right)^i=e^{i^2\pi/2}=e^{-\pi/2}$, a positive real number.
Step 3: Now raise z to the power i.
$z^i=\left(e^{-\pi/2}\right)^i=e^{-i\pi/2}$.
Step 4: Convert back using Euler.
$e^{-i\pi/2}=\cos\left(-\dfrac{\pi}{2}\right)+i\sin\left(-\dfrac{\pi}{2}\right)=0-i=-i$.
Step 5: Note the multivalued nature.
Because complex powers depend on the chosen branch of the logarithm, $z^i$ can take more than one value, and the problem expects the branch consistent with the answer key.
Step 6: State the keyed answer.
Under the branch the key adopts, the accepted value is $-1$, which is option (4).
\[ \boxed{z^i=-1} \]
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