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

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 • Oct. 27, 2015

Yet the indications are that this art of arts had its origin, as far back as the days of savagery, in the ideal element of life rather than the utilitarian.

From Ballad Book by Bates, Katherine Lee

It was the former or ideal element which was examined by Fichte; the latter by Jacobi.

From History of Free Thought in Reference to The Christian Religion by Farrar, Adam Storey

Now in literature all conditions tend to the enormous preponderance of the ideal element in experience.

From The Psychology of Beauty by Howes, Ethel Dench Puffer

In the water, their ideal element, I must say these animals swim wonderfully thanks to their flexible backbones, narrow pelvises, close–cropped hair, and webbed feet.

From Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea by Walter, F. P.