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

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.

In his language on this fundamental point he was perhaps too jealous of admitting an ideal element as implicit in the feeling of obligation.

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 11, Slice 2 "French Literature" to "Frost, William" by Various

The idealisation of science is simply a further development of this ideal element.

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

Yet it is just after such a perusal that the absolute lack of the ideal element is so strongly borne in upon us.

From Maria Edgeworth by Zimmern, Helen