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

Here also we find a religion which was formerly a rude intercourse between barbarous men and savage gods, clothing itself with an ideal element.

From History of Religion A Sketch of Primitive Religious Beliefs and Practices, and of the Origin and Character of the Great Systems by Menzies, Allan

Knowledge, or science, he says, is a process of following out the ideal element in experience.

From John Dewey's logical theory by Howard, Delton Thomas

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.

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