point mass

English

Alternative forms

• pointmass

Noun

point mass (plural point masses)

1. (classical mechanics) A theoretical point with mass assigned to it.
2. (statistics) A probability distribution with unity probability mass at one specific outcome, and zero probability mass everywhere else.

Usage notes

• It is used as a model for physical objects whose other physical properties such as extent and volume do not influence the behavior of interest, as is the case with stars and planets as regards the dynamics of their relative positions and velocities.

Translations

theoretical point with mass assigned to it

• Czech: hmotný bod m
• Finnish: massapiste
• Greek: υλικό σημείο n (ylikó simeío)
• Romanian: punct material n
• Swedish: punktmassa c

See also

• point particle