eigenvalue
nounUK /ˈaɪɡənvæljuː/
US /ˈaɪɡənvæljuː/
A special number that shows how much a shape stretches or shrinks when you transform it.
The eigenvalue of the matrix told us the vector would double in length.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In physics, a value of a measurable quantity that a system can actually show when observed.
The energy eigenvalue of the electron matched the predicted level.
3. A scalar that satisfies the equation Av = λv for a given linear operator.
We solved for the eigenvalue λ using the characteristic polynomial.
4. A number representing a stable mode or frequency in a vibrating system.
Each eigenvalue of the drumhead corresponds to a different tone it can make.