constant quantity
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Definition
- Noun:
- A fixed or unchanging amount: A "constant quantity" refers to a specific numerical value or amount that remains the same and does not change under given conditions.
- An invariant value: In mathematics and science, it is a quantity that is held fixed during a calculation, experiment, or discussion, in contrast to a variable quantity.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- In this equation, 'c' represents a constant quantity, while 'x' is the variable.
- The speed of light in a vacuum is a fundamental constant quantity in physics.
- For the experiment to be valid, we must keep the pressure as a constant quantity.
Advanced Usage
- "To treat as a constant quantity": To consider or handle a value as fixed and unchanging within a specific context.
- When differentiating, you can treat any number multiplied by the variable as a constant quantity.
- "To hold a quantity constant": To deliberately maintain a specific parameter at a fixed value.
- The researchers held the temperature as a constant quantity to observe the effect of pressure alone.
Variants and Related Words
- Constant (n/adj): As a noun, it directly refers to a constant quantity. As an adjective, it describes something that does not change.
- The gravitational constant is a key value in calculations. (n)
- He drove at a constant speed. (adj)
- Invariant (n/adj): A quantity or property that remains unchanged under a set of transformations.
- The total energy in a closed system is an invariant.
Synonyms
- Fixed value: A number or amount that is set and does not vary.
- Parameter (when held constant): A numerical factor that defines a system, often held constant in an analysis.
Related Phrases
- Constant of proportionality: A specific type of constant quantity that relates two variables that are directly proportional.
- In the equation y = kx, 'k' is the constant of proportionality.
- Physical constant: A constant quantity that appears in the laws of physics, such as the gravitational constant or Planck's constant.
Related Idioms
- (To be) a constant: Used figuratively to describe a person or thing that is always present and unchanging.
- Amidst all the change in the company, her dedication was a constant. (Note: This uses the related word "constant," not the phrase "constant quantity.")
Noun
- a quantity that does not vary