relaxation (redirected from loosening)

relaxation

1. Physics the return of a system to equilibrium after a displacement from this state

2. Maths a method by which errors resulting from an approximation are reduced by using new approximations

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relaxation [‚rē‚lak′sā·shən]

(geology)

In experimental structural geology, the diminution of applied stress with time, as the result of any of various creep processes.

(mathematics)

relaxation method

(mechanics)

Relief of stress in a strained material due to creep.

The lessening of elastic resistance in an elastic medium under an applied stress resulting in permanent deformation.

(physics)

A process in which a physical system approaches a steady state after conditions affecting it have been suddenly changed, and in which the presence of dissipative agents prevents the system from overshooting and then oscillating about this state.