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. |
It's only been about a month, and I've already forgotten why I saved this articlebook ad from CNBC. But I'm sure I'll have some things to say, anyway. Former CIA agent: 4 powerful, underutilized phrases can help you establish credibility and earn anyone's trust In my career as a CIA analyst turned CEO and business advisor, understanding how to communicate effectively in complex and stressful environments has been at the core of everything I do. That, and knowing how to spy on the competition without getting caught. Ultimately, I've found that by leading with honesty and authenticity — and with some practice — anyone can learn how to meaningfully earn the trust of powerful stakeholders, and get them on your side. Yep. People respond positively to honesty and authenticity. So once you've learned how to fake those things, you're golden. Using these four key phrases have helped me become a better speaker and problem solver... Oh, that's right. I thought this might be of interest to writers, as phrases are our stock-in-trade. 1. 'What information do you need?' This has the added benefit of preventing you from giving away too much information, yourself. I remember asking Senator John McCain this question during a foreign policy briefing once. Nothing like name-dropping to show your street cred. "Yeah, I once had a casual conversation with a guy who at one point was just a few electoral votes away from becoming President." 2. 'Is there anyone else who needs to be part of this discussion?' "Do you need to bring your mother here?" 3. 'Who disagrees?' "And what dirt can we find on them to make them change their minds?" 4. 'I don't know, but I will find out and come back to you' Okay, I can't really snark on this one. That's engineer-level thought right there. No one knows everything, and it's better to admit that you don't know than to make something up that might come back to bite you. Just be sure to actually follow through. Seriously, though, I don't think it's a bad articlead. And even I was impressed at the author's credentials at the bottom of the page. I just couldn't let certain jokes sit there, bored, with nothing to do. |