(linear algebra) The polynomial produced from a given square matrix by first subtracting the appropriate identity matrix multiplied by an indeterminant and then calculating the determinant.

plural of characteristic root

(linear algebra) An eigenvalue.

(linear algebra) an eigenvector

plural of characteristic function

plural of Euler characteristic

(mathematical analysis) A function which is equal to 1 for all points in its domain which belong to a given set, and is equal to 0 for all points in the domain which do not belong to that given set.

plural of demand characteristic

(usually in the plural) An aspect of an experimental design that leads subjects to infer, and comply with, researcher expectations, thereby confounding the experimental results.

A change or modification to a living organism that occurs during its lifetime, that is not incorporated into its DNA, and hence cannot be passed on to its offspring; for example, the loss of a limb in an accident, or stunted growth due to inadequate nutrition.