DEGENERATE CONFIGURATION Meaning and
Definition
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A "degenerate configuration" is a term commonly used in mathematics and physics to describe a state where a system or object possesses special characteristics or properties that deviate from the norm or standard. In such a configuration, the system typically loses its previous level of order or complexity, resulting in a simpler or less differentiated structure.
In mathematics, a degenerate configuration refers to a situation where standard rules or theorems fail to apply due to some acute variation or anomaly. For example, in geometry, a degenerate configuration of points may occur when multiple points coincide, causing the formation of a single point. This results in a loss of distinctness and simplification of the geometric structure.
In physics, a degenerate configuration often arises when the parameters or variables of a system reach a critical point where they become indeterminate or approach zero. This can lead to a collapse of symmetry or a loss of stability in the system. For instance, in quantum mechanics, an electron in a degenerate state may have the same energy level but different orbital shapes, thus abandoning the typical behavior of electrons.
Overall, a degenerate configuration implies a departure from the expected or usual configuration of a system, often indicating a state of simplification, loss of order, or extreme conditions that challenge existing theories and models.
Common Misspellings for DEGENERATE CONFIGURATION
- segenerate configuration
- xegenerate configuration
- cegenerate configuration
- fegenerate configuration
- regenerate configuration
- eegenerate configuration
- dwgenerate configuration
- dsgenerate configuration
- ddgenerate configuration
- drgenerate configuration
- d4generate configuration
- d3generate configuration
- defenerate configuration
- devenerate configuration
- debenerate configuration
- dehenerate configuration
- deyenerate configuration
- detenerate configuration
- degwnerate configuration
- degsnerate configuration
Etymology of DEGENERATE CONFIGURATION
The word "degenerate" in mathematics refers to a phenomenon where a certain mathematical object or structure loses some of its typical characteristics or properties. In the context of configurations, a "degenerate configuration" refers to a special case where the configuration does not meet the usual requirements or assumptions.
The term "degenerate" itself comes from the Latin word "degenerare", which means to decline or deteriorate. It is derived from the combination of "de" (down, away from) and "generare" (to produce or generate). The term was originally used in biology to describe an organism or species that has evolved into a lower or simpler form.
In mathematics, the term "degenerate" was initially used to describe geometric figures that lose some dimensions or exhibit fewer properties than typical instances. This concept was later extended to various mathematical structures and configurations.
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