variational
VAIR-ee-AY-shuh-nul
Definition
Relating to or involving the calculus of variations, a mathematical method used to find functions that minimize or maximize specific values, such as energy or action in a physical system.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin 'variatio,' meaning 'a changing' or 'an alteration.' It entered English to describe things characterized by fluctuation or, in a mathematical context, methods involving the variation of functions.
In the news
In this article, the 'Hamel variational integrator' refers to a specific numerical method derived from Hamilton’s principle that helps astronomers simulate asteroid motion by preserving physical properties over time.
Astronomers develop a faster way to simulate the complicated motion of binary asteroids
Read the full article ↗The Brighter Side of News