The discussion focuses on determining the speed and direction of a wave represented by the equation y(x,t)=Ae^{Bx^2+BC^2t^2-2BCxt}. The solution simplifies to y(x,t)=Ae^{B(x-Ct)^2}, indicating a wave speed of v=C in the positive x direction. Participants debate the necessity of an imaginary constant in the exponential for the solution to satisfy the wave equation. It is emphasized that without the imaginary constant, the wave representation may not be valid, as regular exponentials do not fulfill the wave equation's requirements. The conversation concludes with a consensus on the importance of including the imaginary constant for a proper wave solution.