What is Parameters: Definition and 534 Discussions

A parameter (from the Ancient Greek παρά, para: "beside", "subsidiary"; and μέτρον, metron: "measure"), generally, is any characteristic that can help in defining or classifying a particular system (meaning an event, project, object, situation, etc.). That is, a parameter is an element of a system that is useful, or critical, when identifying the system, or when evaluating its performance, status, condition, etc.
Parameter has more specific meanings within various disciplines, including mathematics, computer programming, engineering, statistics, logic, linguistics, electronic musical composition.
In addition to its technical uses, there are also extended uses, especially in non-scientific contexts, where it is used to mean defining characteristics or boundaries, as in the phrases 'test parameters' or 'game play parameters'.

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  1. ChrisVer

    CKM Matrix for N Quark Generations: Reduced Parameters

    I am having some difficulties in understanding something I found. Speaking about CKM matrix for N quark generations... I know that the Cabibbo Kobayashi Maskawa matrix is unitary, so it has N^2 free real parameters. Although I cannot understand how by an overall face they get (2N-1) less :/...
  2. E

    H and y parameters for CB and CE transistors

    Homework Statement When I measure CB ciruit: I have got these results: And here CE: Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution So.. here is table, how to calculate h parameters: But I don't understand, am I using it correctly. When I use results of my table...
  3. C

    Parameters for Solar system simulation

    Homework Statement I am constructing an N-body simulation in Java that will ultimately model the solar system. I am testing the reliability of it by slowly increasing the number of bodies in the simulation. So I am starting off with the Sun, Mercury and Venus. I am looking to find the...
  4. C

    Relation between parameters of a vector field and it's projection

    Say we have two vector fields X and Y and we form the projection of Y, Y' orthogonal to X. Since every vector field is associated with a curve with a corresponding parameter, is there a relation between the parameters of Y and Y'?
  5. J

    What is the directrix for a polar conic with the given equation?

    Homework Statement Hi wondering what the directrix is for this Homework Equations r = (20)/ (2+sin(theta)) The Attempt at a Solution I factored denominator so it read 2(1+ (1/2)sin(theta)) ...So I said e times d = (2/20) and I got d = (1/5) because e is (1/2). Doesn't make...
  6. M

    Linear system of equations with parameters

    I have big problems with an equation system. It's been a long time since I worked with these type of problems and it would be wonderful if I could get an full solution of this or some similar problem. Decide for all real a and b, the number of solutions to the equation system. I...
  7. K

    Constants of Nature (and SM Parameters)

    I'm reading Peter Woit book "Not Even Wrong" and have been contemplating on the constants of nature or the parameters. I have some questions. 1. Which of the Constants of Nature do you think can be calculated by principles? Should they in principle be calculable? 2. Should a Unified...
  8. A

    Calculating Pump Head: Equation & Parameters Explained

    Hi there Looking for some help with calculating the head for a pump The example in my textbook isn't exactly clear. Is there a specific equation I can be using or can it be worked out having the following: volumetric flow rate density of fluid gravity pump efficiency pipe...
  9. Gh778

    Choose parameters for a system

    Theoretical study. Disks are one above the other. Turn at same rotationnal speed w. Is it possible to choose good parameters for: - density - radius - rotationnal speed - position of d3/gas: d3 in disk1 at radius R1, d3 in disk2 at radius R2, gas in disk1 at radius R2, gas in disk2 at...
  10. FeDeX_LaTeX

    Y'' + y = f(x) - Variation of Parameters?

    y'' + y = f(x) -- Variation of Parameters? Homework Statement Use variation of parameters to solve ##y'' + y = f(x), y(0) = y'(0) = 0.##Homework Equations A description of the method is here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variation_of_parametersThe Attempt at a Solution The complementary...
  11. X

    Signal recording parameters (EE)

    Homework Statement What (complete) set of sampling and filtering parameters would you choose to record a signal from a high speed pressure sensor if you wanted to accurately determine its power spectrum below 35 kHz with a resolution of 0.5 Hz? Homework Equations frequency resolution =...
  12. MarkFL

    MHB Solve Parameters of Displacement Function - Raja's Question

    Here is the question: I have posted a link there to this topic so the OP can see my work.
  13. D

    Java Java rule on Methods with multiple parameters

    Let's say a method or constructor has multiple parameters example in DecimalFormat -- public final StringBuffer format(double number, StringBuffer toAppendTo, FieldPosition pos) if you don't declare all of the parameters, what happens to those that are not...
  14. T

    Introducing parameters in integrals

    Homework Statement Using the integral ∫dx/1+x^2 = pi/2 from 0 to infinity as a guide, introduce a parameter and then differentiate with respect to this parameter to evaluate the integral ∫dx/(x^2+a^2)^3 from 0 to infinity Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution ∫(1/1+x^2) =...
  15. alane1994

    MHB What is the general solution for a differential equation with a secant term?

    I was given the problem, "Find the general solution of the given differential equation." \(y^{\prime\prime}+9y=9\sec^2(3t)\) My work as follows, please let me know if this is correct and where to go from here. I have hit a roadblock of sorts. \(y^{\prime\prime}+9y=9\sec^2(3t)\)...
  16. A

    MHB Coordinate geometry with given parameters.

    Hello, Please forgive me if it's in the wrong sub-forum because don't know where to place it. I need help solving this problem it's chapter 1 and in our class we are already in chapter 5 so I might sound like a fool asking the teacher about it, I was revising and decided to do some questions...
  17. A

    Exploring the Kerr Optical Effect: λ & E Parameters

    I'm wondering about the Kerr Optical effect as described on wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kerr_effect Are there limits to the range of parameters at which the effect starts to break down? What λ values and E values does this formula apply to?
  18. Albert1

    MHB Finding $\overset{\frown}{BN}$ with Given Parameters

    Points A,B are on circle C ,segment MN is a diameter of circle C, and point P is on segment MN , if : $\angle CAP=\angle CBP =10^o ,\,\, \overset{\frown} {MA}=40^o,\,\, find :\,\, \overset{\frown} {BN}=?$
  19. P

    Possible criteria or parameters for planetary collision?

    Possible "criteria" or parameters for planetary collision? Suppose a computer model were created to simulate two proto-type planets on a collision course (for example, the Earth-Moon collision in the Hartman theory of the Moon formation). We know that the Moon is spiraling outwards (tidal...
  20. A

    Two-port network transmission parameters?

    two-port network transmission parameters?? Homework Statement Homework Equations t[A B]=[t11 t12] [C D]=[t21 t22] The Attempt at a Solution so, first thing i did was find the equivalent capacitance/inductance. C(eq)=-j0.5 and L(eq)=j0.5. using these values as I was confused by parametric...
  21. R

    Mapping Euler spiral (clothoid) parameters

    Hi... first post here! Sorry if not in the right place. I am trying to decode the parameters for an xml file format and I would appreciate help in interpreting some parameters. I know the thing specified is a "transition curve" or clothoid curve, as the transition between a straight path and...
  22. S

    Is it possible to perform supremum with two parameters in the same function?

    Can I do this: sup_(x,y) f(x,y) = sup_y sup_x f(x,y) ?
  23. L

    Parameters of helix approximated by parts of torus

    Hello, I am approximating a helix by parts of torus, to build an optical fiber wrapped around a cylinder simulation. Due to the software limitations, there is no easier way. So I take a part of the torus, rotate it so the one end points slightly up, connect similar part of the torus to the...
  24. G

    Matrix Inversion for Variation of Parameters

    I am working on the following problem: Can someone please show or explain the steps to invert the phi matrix? I've given it a few tries, but I can't reach what the book has for the answer. Please help! Thanks
  25. H

    System of equations with 2 parameters

    Homework Statement I have a system of two equations: 3*x^2 - x + 3*y^2 = 0 2*x^2 - y + 2*y^2 = 0 Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution I don't know how to express one with the other.I mean I can either have x = 3*y^2 + 3*x^2 or y = y = -2*y^2 - 2*x^2 and in both cases it...
  26. J

    Origin of <file.tmp to pass input parameters

    I was just curious. I have a program that asks for input file name and output name when the console is executed. I needed to run it and automatically pass these file names. I found a way.. test.exe <files.tmp where files.tmp has 2 lines. First line is name of input file, second is output...
  27. J

    Writing parameters in terms of given vectors

    Homework Statement Four 3-vectors a, b, c, and d are related by the equation ax + by + cz = d; where x, y, and z are real parameters. Using a suitable combination of scalar and vector products, findd x, y, and z in terms of the vectors Homework Equations The Attempt at a...
  28. C

    Can Affine Parameters Be Used to Describe Null Curves in GR?

    In describing the length of a curve in spacetime it is necessary to parametrize it and in GR one comes across the notion of affine parameters. One definition of affine parameters u are parameters which are related 'affinely' to the length of the curve s trough u = as + b where a and b are...
  29. marellasunny

    Design of 4 stroke IC engine from few parameters (bmep, B.P, piston speed)

    (I have trouble in finding the stroke length and fuel flow rate) From Heywood,E2.11 You are designing a 4 stroke CI to provide a brake power of 300kW,Naturally aspirated at its max rated speed.Based on typical values for brake mean eff.pressure(bmep){700kPa to 900kPa} and max mean piston...
  30. Sudharaka

    MHB Method of Reduction of Order and Variation of Parameters

    Hi everyone, :) One of my friends gave me the following question. I am posting the question and the answer here so that he could check his work. Question: This question concerns the differential equation, \[x\frac{d^{2}y}{dx^2}-(x+1)\frac{dy}{dx}+y=x^2\] and the associated homogeneous...
  31. S

    Eliminating parameters and graphing parametric equations

    Homework Statement "Eliminate the parameter and graph the plane curve represented by the parametric equations." x=t^2, y=t-1; -1 ≦ t ≦ 3 Homework Equations The Attempt at a Solution No need for you guys to graph; I can do that on my own. It would be a lot of work to have you guys...
  32. K

    Calculating Hybrid Parameters for an Inverting Op Amp

    Hi guys :smile: This question has been bugging me for a REALLY long time so thanks in advance for the help :biggrin:! Homework Statement Calculate the Hybrid Parameters for an inverting op amp shown below: https://www.dropbox.com/s/45mjldud2ar5pwg/invOpAmp.jpg And I need to get it...
  33. R

    Modeling Atmospheric Re-entry & Determing Optimal Re-entry Parameters

    I'm taking a course in adaptive neural networks and became interested in trying to see if I can use neural networks to find the optimum values for the control parameters in atmospheric re-entry in order to reach a specified target on Earth. I've come across a paper that discusses this and goes...
  34. C

    Finding parameters of a hyperbolic orbit

    Homework Statement A particle of mass m is moving in a repulsive inverse square law force ##\mathbf{F}(\mathbf{r}) = (\mu/r^2)\hat{r}##. Given that ##u(\theta) = -\frac{\mu}{mh^2} + A\cos(\theta - \theta_o)##, 1) Determine the paramters of the (far branch of the)hyperbolic orbit...
  35. T

    Dimensionless parameters affecting cooling tower performance

    I'd like to know the dimensionless parameters affecting a counter-flow induced draft cooling tower's performance, or if someone could direct me to an adequate resource . I'd also appreciate if I could be directed to some good comprehensive resources on cooling tower design Thanks guys
  36. D

    Can Different Same-Voltage Batteries Be Used in Parallel for Discharge Only?

    Maybe somebody can help me with the following question on batteries: I have several batteries which I have to charge from different sources. I have solar panels on the roof of my RV, 2 by 3 meters. On a sunny day, they can charge maybe the equivalent of a 100 ah battery. But if I run...
  37. R

    How do I best fit a function's parameters to a curve

    Hello, Suppose, 1. I have a function f=C1 + C2/((C3-X)^C4); where Cn is a constant; I'm looking at the Havriliak-Negami equation which has some 5 constants. 2. I have a data set whose least-squares fit looks like a curve, How can I compute the values of the function's parameters C1 to...
  38. S

    Lumped parameters model: inverse dynamic

    Hi all, I have a ground excited single degree of freedom model, like that: http://www.bsw-schwingungstechnik.de/fileadmin/user_upload/images/2/graphic-passiv-isolation.jpg I know the excitation function, i.e. s(t), but I need to know the force that imposes a specific s(t). I need it...
  39. S

    MATLAB MATLAB - Find the error on polynomial fit parameters of experimental data

    See attached PDF for details: How do I calculate errors on the fit parameters, p?
  40. MarkFL

    MHB Covert's question at Yahoo Answers regarding a line tangent to a cubic and finding parameters

    Here is the question: Here is a link to the question: Curve Tangent Question? - Yahoo! Answers I have posted a link there to this topic so the OP can find my response.
  41. R

    Calculation of circles parameters embedded in 2 rotating discs?

    The next situation is presented 2 big circles (blue ones) are rotating in different directions. The left one is rotating clockwise and the right one rotates counter clockwise. Inside the 2 big circles, 2 small circles (pink ones) are embedded...
  42. A

    Physical meaning of wavefunction parameters x and t

    This isn't a homework question per se but it's a question that I had while reading through my textbook so I think it's appropriate here. I just started studying Quantum Mechanics and so am getting familiarized with the meaning of wave functions and their behavior. One question I can't seem to...
  43. marellasunny

    Number of parameters for a nonlinear differential equation

    Take for example a system \frac{dx_i}{dt}=(x_i,t,a,b,...) i-number of state equations. What would be the maximum number of parameters permitted for this system of non-linear differential equations? Is it finally determined by the solution space?Is there a criteria for number of...
  44. O

    Differential Calculus variaton of parameters question

    Homework Statement The equation that has to be solved: y'' - y' - 2y = 2e^(-t) The problem I am having is that I don't understand why they equatate that part with the derivatives of the u parameters to 0. (see image) Here they first find the characteristic equation and write down...
  45. T

    Bayesian Statistics - obtaining parameters for model from real data

    Hello, I've got some data on an epidemic in various locations - the total number of agents and number killed by the infection after 1 year. -This gives gives me a distribution of percentages of the populations that have been killed by the infection. (but all the percentage values are relatively...
  46. Z

    Calculate Perihelion Distance of Mars Using Solar System Parameters

    Homework Statement Assuming that the sun lies at the principal focus of the solar system, and given that the semi-major axis and eccentricity of Mars is 1.5237 AU and 0.0934 respectively, calculate: The distance (in AU) when Mars is closest to the Sun (known as perihelion). The angle θ=0°...
  47. A

    Inverse 2D rotation with negative parameters

    Homework Statement Say we have a 2D rigid body transform, with parameters p = [ p_1,p_2,p_3] for rotation, x translation and y translation respectively. I'm using the transform to .. transform an image. Is there a way to have: For a point x , y : x',y' = transform(x,y,p) <=> x,y =...
  48. D

    Are AC and DC parameters related linearly?

    I've a small wind turbine that is rated at about 24V. The turbine produces AC voltage but it's got an internal recifier converting this to DC. I need to create an embedded system that measures the output of this turbine displaying AC voltage, current and power output. I did some research...
  49. fluidistic

    Variation of parameters applied to an ODE

    The ODE to solve via variation of parameters is ##(1-x)y''+xy'-y=(1-x)^2##. Knowing that ##e^x## and ##x## are solutions to the homogeneous ODE. Now if I call ##y_1=x## and ##y_2=e^x##, the Wronskian is ##W(y_1,y_2)=e^{x}(x-1)##. According to...
  50. S

    Unravelling real and complex parts of material parameters

    Hi, I'm writing a term paper and am having a lot of trouble understanding what is meant by the real and imaginary parts of various quantities. It seems a lot of textbooks have their own conventions and it's hard to understand whether they've redefined some symbol when they "complexify" them...
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