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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.
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Write your entry today from the perspective of an animal. You could choose a pet, a lioness on the hunt, a rhino being pursued by poachers, or any other animal of your choice.
"We have a rodent problem in the yard."
"Hey, kitty!" was the Feeder's only response.
"Are you listening to me? There are mice. In the yard." I brushed his legs in frustration, ducking out of the way of his questing paw. I wasn't in the mood to be touched; I just wanted him to listen.
"What are you meowing about?"
All that work, and he still doesn't understand me. No one does. I stalked to the door. "Let me out," I demanded.
"What are you doing? You just now came inside."
I pawed at the door. The Feeder sighed and opened it. I bolted.
Fine. The Feeder won't do anything about it, so I will. I took my perch on the porch, and watched. And waited.
Soon enough, I saw something flit through the tall grass, hesitant, wary. Still, I waited.
It inched closer. I felt my tail twitching in anticipation. And yet, I waited.
Closer and closer it quested. I could see it now. Not a mouse. A mole. Close enough. I pounced.
I can't seem to get through to him with words. Perhaps something more... physical. Dropping the now-dead mole just outside the door, I signaled for entry.
This part usually takes some time, but he must have been near the door. It opened, and I saw his gaze move from me to the message. Sitting, I looked at him and said, "See? Rodents."
He slammed the door in my face. Licking my lips, I trotted off to find another one.
...yeah, I know, not the sort of thing I usually post here, but what's the blog activity for if not to stretch one's boundaries? Now to go bag some presents my cats left me. |
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