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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.
February 28, 2019 at 12:43am February 28, 2019 at 12:43am
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Finally, the last day of the hated month of February.
Unfortunately, the weather report here indicates more cold days ahead, and possibly s**w. But at least the end is in sight: three weeks to the equinox.
If I can make it that far without straying too far from my healthy-eating-and-exercise plan, begun on the solstice, I'll consider it a win. Then it won't feel so bad when I inevitably fail.
I've been waffling about whether I want to reprise the "30-Day Blogging Challenge ON HIATUS" [13+] in March - though I'm leaning toward not doing it this time. That merit badge up there is from winning it in January; while I'm not focused on winning, I originally started doing it as motivation to blog every day, and I think I can do that anyway, writing about the subjects that interest me and not necessarily following a prompt. Still, it can be a great activity, and I highly recommend it for anyone who wants that extra motivation.
Besides, I might need to give myself permission to skip a day or three in March. Perhaps I'll re-evaluate for the next round, presumably in April - though I might have to go to NYC for a few days then.
In other "win" news, back in December, I signed up to do "I Write in 2019" [E] - one contest entry and one review per week. I've actually been successful at that as well - at completing the tasks, anyway. We'll see if that holds up. It's going to be especially tricky in October and November, what with NaNo and Prep, but I'll burn those bridges when I get to them. Again, I expect to fail eventually - so I can't be too disappointed when it happens.
I'm starting to get antsy for travel again, too. Part of that, though, is the crappy weather we've been having (normal for February in Virginia, but still crappy), so we'll see if I still have the urge in, say, April. I'll be unsatisfied if I don't go somewhere this year; I just don't have any firm plans yet. Maybe in conjunction with my possible NYC trip. Probably another beer tour; if so, that will automatically fail my health efforts - at least while I'm traveling.
I mean, losing weight is great and all, but beer is more important. |
© Copyright 2024 Robert Waltz (UN: cathartes02 at Writing.Com). All rights reserved. Robert Waltz has granted InkSpot.Com, its affiliates and its syndicates non-exclusive rights to display this work.
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