ideal element

British  

noun

1. any element added to a mathematical theory in order to eliminate special cases. The ideal element i = √–1 allows all algebraic equations to be solved and the point at infinity ( ideal point ) ensures that any two lines in projective geometry intersect

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Example Sentences

While Hollywood has long celebrated chess as a great equalizer across race and class - an ideal element for an underdog tale - it rarely turns its lens on modern African culture in such a realistic and respectful way.

From Washington Times

As the lightest metal on the periodic table, and the one most eager to shed its electrons, lithium is the ideal element to make powerful, portable batteries.

From Nature

It is on the latter or ideal element that Kant makes the emphasis increasingly turn.

From Project Gutenberg

Mr. Parker's ministry had three periods, in each of which the ideal element was the attraction.

From Project Gutenberg

It is the function of the poet not only to create for us an ideal world and to fill it with ideal creatures, but also to reveal to us the ideal element in the actual world.

From Project Gutenberg