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Complex Numbers
Complex Numbers
A complex number is expressed in the standard form a + bi, where a and b are real numbers and i is defined by i^2 = -1 (that is, i is the square root of -1). For example, 3 + 2i is a complex number.
The bi term is often referred to as an imaginary number (though this may be misleading, as it is no more "imaginary" than the symbolic abstractions we know as the "real" numbers). Thus, every complex number has a real part, a, and an imaginary part, bi.
Complex numbers are often represented on a graph known as the "complex plane," where the horizontal axis represents the infinity of real numbers, and the vertical axis represents the infinity of imaginary numbers. Thus, each complex number has a unique representation on the complex plane: some closer to real; others, more imaginary. If a = b, the number is equal parts real and imaginary.
Very simple transformations applied to numbers in the complex plane can lead to fractal structures of enormous intricacy and astonishing beauty.
January 22, 2019 at 12:11am January 22, 2019 at 12:11am
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What is your preferred book reading medium? Kindle, computer screen, audiobook, or good old fashioned paper? How come?
I had one of the first Kindles.
That particular model of Kindle was excellent for me because it didn't have a backlit screen like a computer or tablet, but rather something akin to an LCD display. This made it dependent on ambient lighting conditions - it was nice to have something that I could read in bright light, just like a book, but a lot less bulky. I bought an LED light to handle dimmer situations. This was around the time my vision started to deteriorate from age and I started needing reading glasses - but with the Kindle, if I forgot the glasses, I could change the font size on the fly.
It's since died; it's been a while. And I was never interested in the tablet-style Kindles - those are great in dim situations and crap in bright light, but I can say the same thing about my laptop and I'd rather just use that. I also don't read as much anymore, because even with reading glasses it's become a chore. Mostly I stay on the computer, reading stuff here as well as news stories, and playing video games.
There are books that I need to read, though, and for them I'll get the hardcovers. I would, anyway - mostly I used the Kindle for pulp novels that I'd be embarrassed to have on a bookshelf.
Audiobooks basically put me to sleep.
It's probably about time for me to get a new Kindle, though, and read some more. They still make the non-tablet kind, and they're not very expensive. Some models are even waterproof, which would be great if I ventured into the outdoors. Except that if I'm outside in a place where I need a waterproof Kindle, that means I'm wearing sunscreen. And if I'm wearing sunscreen, that means the Kindle will just slip right out of my greased fingers. Best if I don't go outside at all, least of all under the glare of the accursed daystar.
Maybe if someone bought me a hot tub... |
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