Definitions for: Parameter


[n] a constant in the equation of a curve that can be varied to yield a family of similar curves
[n] a quantity (such as the mean or variance) that characterizes a statistical population and that can be estimated by calculations from sample data
[n] any factor that defines a system and determines (or limits) its performance



Webster (1913) Definition: Pa*ram"e*ter, n. [Pref. para- + -meter: cf. F.
param[`e]tre.]
1.
(a) (Math.) A term applied to some characteristic
magnitude whose value, invariable as long as one and
the same function, curve, surface, etc., is
considered, serves to distinguish that function,
curve, surface, etc., from others of the same kind or
family. --Brande & C.
(b) Specifically (Conic Sections), in the ellipse and
hyperbola, a third proportional to any diameter and
its conjugate, or in the parabola, to any abscissa and
the corresponding ordinate.

Note: The parameter of the principal axis of a conic section
is called the latus rectum.

2. (Crystallog.) The ratio of the three crystallographic axes
which determines the position of any plane; also, the
fundamental axial ratio for a given species.

Synonyms: parametric quantity

See Also: constant, constant quantity, degree of freedom, factor, quantity

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