modulus

/ˈmɑdʒələs/
noun
  1. A number that represents the size or absolute value of a mathematical quantity, especially the distance from zero on a number line.
    • The modulus of the vector was calculated to be 12.
    • The modulus of -5 is 5.
    • In math class, we learned how to find the modulus of a complex number.
  2. A number used in modular arithmetic that determines the remainder after division.
    • When you divide 17 by 5, the modulus is 2.
    • The computer program uses a modulus of 7 to cycle through the days of the week.
    • In modular arithmetic, we use a modulus of 12 for clock arithmetic.
  3. A constant factor or measure of a physical property, such as elasticity or rigidity.
    • The modulus of rigidity helps determine how a beam will bend under pressure.
    • Different metals have different moduli of elasticity.
    • The engineer calculated the modulus of the material to test its strength.
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