Not for the faint of art. |
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. |
Today's attempt at a "JAFBG" [XGC] prompt... What is a big debate in a small subculture that you're part of which the average person wouldn't know about? (ex. a debate in your field of study, in a specific hobby, in your profession, in your community) Well, I suppose I could take sides over who would win in a fight, Superman or the Hulk. Or maybe go the Trek route and enter into the great debate over who is the best captain, Kirk or Picard. (Trick question. It's Sisko.) But how about the small subculture that most of us here share, and the great debate that will almost certainly never be settled to anyone's satisfaction? I'm referring, of course, to the Oxford comma. Here are some shining examples, courtesy of Thesaurus.com, of why the Oxford comma is a necessity: "Rachael Ray finds inspiration in cooking her family and her dog" Too bad she can only do that once. "World leaders at Mandela tribute, Obama-Castro handshake and same-sex marriage date set... " In fairness, that one could have gone either way. " ... an overworked employee at the Ministry of Magic, a husband and father of three school-age children." It seems this is from fanfiction, not original Rowling, but even fanfic writers should know better than to be this ambiguous. "We went caroling with our dogs, grandma and grandpa." Strange names for dogs, but you do you. " ... Merle Haggard's two ex-wives, Kris Kristofferson and Robert Duvall." Okay, well, if it worked for them, fine. " ... Nelson Mandela, an 800-year-old demigod and a dildo collector." And I'm going to stop right there, because if that phrase is not enough to convince you that the Oxford comma is an absolute requirement, nothing will be. |