hidden variable
A 'hidden variable' is a theoretical concept used to explain observable phenomena by introducing factors that are not directly measurable.
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Definition
C2Quantum Mechanics
(technical, academic)A hypothetical factor that could make quantum phenomena deterministic, challenging the inherent probabilistic nature of quantum mechanics.
Example
- Bell's theorem challenges the existence of local hidden variables in quantum mechanics.
C1Statistics
(technical, academic)An unobserved factor that influences both the dependent and independent variables, potentially skewing the results of a statistical model.
Example
- The presence of a hidden variable can lead to confounding in statistical analyses.
C1Computer Science
(technical, academic)An unobservable factor introduced to simplify complex constraint satisfaction problems.
Example
- Introducing hidden variables can transform a complex problem into a simpler one in computer science.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hidden variable":