GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English
last match results
Found 3 definitions
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del n. (Math.) a differential operator which, operating on a function of several variables, gives the sum of the partial derivatives of the function with respect to the three orthogonal spatial coordinates; -- also called the gradient or grad. It is represented by an inverted Greek capital delta (∇), and is thus because of its shape also called nabla, meaning harp in Hebrew.
[PJC]
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Gradient (?), a. [L. gradiens, p. pr. of gradi to step, to go. See Grade.]
1. Moving by steps; walking; as, “gradient automata”. Wilkins.
[1913 Webster]
2. Rising or descending by regular degrees of inclination; as, “the gradient line of a railroad”.
[1913 Webster]
3. Adapted for walking, as the feet of certain birds.
[1913 Webster]
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Gradient, n.
1. The rate of regular or graded ascent or descent in a road; grade.
[1913 Webster]
2. A part of a road which slopes upward or downward; a portion of a way not level; a grade.
[1913 Webster]
3. The rate of increase or decrease of a variable magnitude, or the curve which represents it; as, “a thermometric gradient”.
4. (Chem., Biochem.) The variation of the concentration of a chemical substance in solution through some linear path; also called concentration gradient; -- usually measured in concentration units per unit distance. Concentration gradients are created naturally, e.g. by the diffusion of a substance from a point of high concentration toward regions of lower concentration within a body of liquid; in laboratory techniques they may be made artificially.
[PJC]
gradient maker (Biochem.) a device which creates a concentration gradient in a solution within some apparatus; -- used, e. g., for separation of biochemical substances.
[PJC]
Gradient post, a post or stake indicating by its height or by marks on it the grade of a railroad, highway, or embankment, etc., at that spot.