The imaginary unit is generally denoted $i$ or $\imath$. I have learned that the term imaginary ("imaginaires") was coined by R. Descartes in 1637, and the "i" notation was introduced by L. Euler (cf. Short History of Complex Numbers). In engineering and physics, the notation $j$ or $\jmath$ is often used. Some say it was used to limit confusions with the current, often denoted $i$ or "I", as noted at Electric current:
The conventional symbol for current is I, which originates from the French phrase intensité de courant, meaning current intensity .
My questions are:
- Was the $\imath$ (or $i$) notation used before Euler?
- Who introduced the $\jmath$ (or $j$) notation?
EDIT: I just found, answering on a different topic about frequency, a mention of the word "cisoid" (abbreviated as $\mathrm{cis}$), I just found Cisoidal Oscillations, 1911, by George A. Campbell, where he writes:
The use of $i$ (or Greek $\imath$) for the imaginary symbol is nearly universal in mathematical work, which is a very strong reason for retaining it in the applications of mathematics in electrical engineering. Aside, however, from the matter of established conventions and facility of reference to mathematical literature, the substitution of the symbol $j$ is objectionable because of the vector terminology with which it has become associated in engineering literature, and also because of the confusion resulting from the divided practice of engineering writers, some using $j$ for $+i$ and others using $j$ for $- i$
So the story is not fully new, and we could date the $j$ before 1911.