Mathematics
In set theory, the adjective antisymmetric usually refers to an antisymmetric relation.
The term "antisymmetric function" is sometimes used for odd function, although some meanings of antisymmetric are essentiality f(−y, −x) = −f(x, y). In operator notation the latter is called anticommutativity.
In linear algebra and theoretical physics, the adjective antisymmetric (or skew-symmetric) is used for matrices, tensors, and other objects that change sign if an appropriate operation (usually the exchange of two indices, which becomes the transposition of the matrix) is performed. See:
- antisymmetric matrix (a matrix A for which AT = −A)
- antisymmetric tensor
Read more about this topic: Antisymmetric
Famous quotes containing the word mathematics:
“It is a monstrous thing to force a child to learn Latin or Greek or mathematics on the ground that they are an indispensable gymnastic for the mental powers. It would be monstrous even if it were true.”
—George Bernard Shaw (1856–1950)
“In mathematics he was greater
Than Tycho Brahe, or Erra Pater:
For he, by geometric scale,
Could take the size of pots of ale;
Resolve, by sines and tangents straight,
If bread and butter wanted weight;
And wisely tell what hour o’ th’ day
The clock doth strike, by algebra.”
—Samuel Butler (1612–1680)