Complex Flexing: When Basic Math Isn't Fancy Enough

Complex Flexing: When Basic Math Isn't Fancy Enough
mathematics-memes, algebra-memes, complex-numbers-memes, imaginary-numbers-memes, math-humor-memes | ScienceHumor.io

The mathematical flex is strong with this one! The meme contrasts two approaches to algebraic identities - rejecting the basic "difference of squares" formula (complete with a literal poop drawing) while embracing the more sophisticated complex number approach to the sum of squares.

What makes this hilarious is how it portrays the complex number approach as the "Chad" option - using imaginary numbers to factorize a²+b² into (a+bi)(a-bi) is mathematically elegant but absolutely unnecessary for most applications. It's the mathematical equivalent of using a flamethrower to light a birthday candle.

The graduation cap on the bottom panel really seals it - nothing says "I'm smarter than you" like unnecessarily bringing complex analysis into basic algebra. Pure mathematical peacocking at its finest!

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