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degeneracy |
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degeneracy [di′jen·ə·rə·sē] (mathematics) The condition in which two characteristic functions of an operator have the same characteristic value. (physics) The condition in which two or more modes of a vibrating system have the same frequency; a special case of the mathematics definition. (quantum mechanics) The condition in which two or more stationary states of the same system have the same energy even though their wave functions are not the same; a special case of the mathematics definition. Degeneracy (quantum mechanics) A term referring to the fact that two or more stationary states of the same quantum-mechanical system may have the same energy even though their wave functions are not the same. In this case the common energy level of the stationary states is degenerate. The statistical weight of the level is proportional to the order of degeneracy, that is, to the number of states with the same energy; this number is predicted from Schrödinger's equation. In quantum mechanics and in other branches of mathematical physics, the term degeneracy is employed also to characterize the eigenvalues of operators other than the energy operator. See Eigenvalue (quantum mechanics) How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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| The means relied on in this form of government for preventing their degeneracy are numerous and various. These STRULDBRUGS and I would mutually communicate our observations and memorials, through the course of time; remark the several gradations by which corruption steals into the world, and oppose it in every step, by giving perpetual warning and instruction to mankind; which, added to the strong influence of our own example, would probably prevent that continual degeneracy of human nature so justly complained of in all ages. M'ganwazam, she now saw, was an evil-appearing savage with every mark of brutal degeneracy writ large upon his bestial countenance. |
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