![]() |
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. |
I've been thinking about what to post for this final blog entry in 2018. I thought about doing a year in review, but everyone does that, and it's gotten boring. (I will, however, link this article about this year's science accomplishments. Some of them are more "mind-blowing" and "life-changing" than others. https://www.businessinsider.com/biggest-scientific-discoveries-of-2018-2018-12) I also considered looking ahead. But that way lies madness. I've never yet been able to accomplish any of the goals I set at the end of a year, and I'm sure as hell not going to start now. Resolutions piss me off. At least I'm consistent at succeeding at being an utter failure. Then I thought, maybe I'll talk about how arbitrary the new year is and how marking it is a fool's game. But I've already covered that in my post about the solstice, and what the hell, let's let everyone have their own fun. Don't forget to tip your Uber and/or Lyft driver; it sucks having to work New Year's Eve. So, fuck it. I'm done. See you all next year. |