path-independent property
nounUK /pɑːθ ˌɪndɪˈpendənt ˈprɒpəti/
US /pæθ ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt ˈprɑːpərti/
A property where the answer is the same no matter which way you go.
The height of a hill is a path-independent property because it is the same however you climb it.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In physics, a quantity whose change depends only on the start and end points, not the route taken.
Gravitational potential energy is a path-independent property of position.
3. In mathematics, a line integral that gives the same value for every curve connecting two points.
The work done by a conservative force is a path-independent property of the endpoints.
4. In thermodynamics, a state function such as internal energy or entropy.
Enthalpy is a path-independent property, unlike heat transferred.