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. |
The penultimate June entry in "Journalistic Intentions" [18+]: Interval training I can't stress enough. ...oh, you want more? Fine. I can't stress enough the importance of training your interval. Wild intervals can be chaotic, unpredictable, noisy, and even dangerous in the wrong situations. In the early days of interval domestication, trainers lost fingers, toes, and even noses to these stubborn beasts. Even today, improper training can lead to catastrophes, such as spilled coffee, punching in late for work, and a bad hair day. So, you may be wondering, what would the proper procedure be for interval training? Well, that's the problem, see: every interval is different. Some differences are nearly undetectable, while others are chasms rivaling the Grand Canyon. You'll need to discover the method that works for you and the interval. It's a long, difficult process, but the rewards can be inconceivable. In the end, you'll find that it was the interval that trained you. |