variationalproblem
nounUK /ˌveəriˈeɪʃənl ˈprɒbləm/
US /ˌveriˈeɪʃənl ˈprɑːbləm/
A math puzzle where you look for the best shape or path among many choices.
Finding the fastest slide between two points is a classic variational problem.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A problem of finding a function that makes an integral as small or large as possible.
The brachistochrone is a famous variational problem solved by Bernoulli.
3. Any task of choosing the best option from a family of possible curves or surfaces.
Designing the lightest bridge shape can be framed as a variational problem.
4. In physics, a problem solved by requiring an action to be stationary.
Deriving the path of a particle often becomes a variational problem.