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

But the moment it is admitted that there is a beauty of form independent of the ideal element, this theory can no longer stand.

From The Psychology of Beauty by Howes, Ethel Dench Puffer

He turned his eyes and saw her emotion, which greatly increased the ideal element in her expressive face.

From Desperate Remedies by Hardy, Thomas

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

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

From Hegel's Philosophy of Mind by Hegel, Georg Wilhelm Friedrich