'Absolute constant' definitions:

Definition of 'Absolute constant'

From: GCIDE
  • Constant \Con"stant\, n.
  • 1. That which is not subject to change; that which is invariable. [1913 Webster]
  • 2. (Math.) A quantity that does not change its value; -- used in countradistinction to variable. [1913 Webster]
  • 3. (Astron.) A number whose value, when ascertained (as by observation) and substituted in a general mathematical formula expressing an astronomical law, completely determines that law and enables predictions to be made of its effect in particular cases. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • 4. (Physics) A number expressing some property or condition of a substance or of an instrument of precision; as, the dielectric constant of quartz; the collimation constant of a transit instrument. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • 5. (Computers) a data structure that does not change during the course of execution of a program. It may be a number, a string, or a more complex data structure; -- contrasted with variable. [PJC]
  • Aberration constant, or Constant of aberration (Astron.), a number which by substitution in the general formula for aberration enables a prediction to be made of the effect of aberration on a star anywhere situated. Its value is 20[sec].47.
  • Absolute constant (Math.), one whose value is absolutely the same under all circumstances, as the number 10, or any numeral.
  • Arbitrary constant, an undetermined constant in a differential equation having the same value during all changes in the values of the variables.
  • Gravitation constant (Physics), the acceleration per unit of time produced by the attraction of a unit of mass at unit distance. When this is known the acceleration produced at any distance can be calculated.
  • Solar constant (Astron.), the quantity of heat received by the earth from the sun in a unit of time. It is, on the C. G. S. system, 0.0417 small calories per square centimeter per second. --Young. [Webster 1913 Suppl.]
  • Constant of integration (Math.), an undetermined constant added to every result of integration. [1913 Webster + Webster 1913 Suppl.]