algorithm

algorithm
A systematic process consisting of an ordered sequence of steps, each step depending on the outcome of the previous one. In clinical medicine, a step-by-step protocol for management of a health care problem; in computed tomography, the formulas used for calculation of the final image from the transmitted x-ray data. [Mediev. L. algorismus, after Muhammad ibn-Musa al-Khwarizmi, Arabian mathematician, + G. arithmos, number]

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n.
a sequential set of instructions used in calculations or problem solving. A reconstruction algorithm is a complex mathematical formula used by a computer to construct images from the data acquired by CT, MRI, or other scanners. A diagnostic algorithm or a therapeutic algorithm consists of a stepwise series of instructions with branching pathways to be followed to assist a physician in coming to a diagnosis or deciding on a treatment strategy, respectively.

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al·go·rithm (alґgə-rith-əm) 1. a step-by-step method of solving a problem or making decisions, as in making a diagnosis. 2. an established mechanical procedure for solving certain mathematical problems.

Medical dictionary. 2011.

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  • algorithm — UK US /ˈælgərɪðəm/ noun [C] IT ► a set of mathematical instructions that must be followed in a fixed order, and that, especially if given to a computer, will help to calculate an answer to a mathematical problem: a computer/mathematical/search… …   Financial and business terms

  • algorithm — n. a precise rule (or set of rules) specifying how to solve some problem; a set of procedures guaranteed to find the solution to a problem. Syn: algorithmic rule, algorithmic program [WordNet 1.5 +PJC] …   The Collaborative International Dictionary of English

  • algorithm — [al′gə rith΄əm] n. [altered (after ARITHMETIC) < ALGORISM] 1. Math. a) any systematic method of solving a certain kind of problem b) the repetitive calculations used in finding the greatest common divisor of two numbers: called in full… …   English World dictionary

  • Algorithm —   [engl.], Algorithmus.   …   Universal-Lexikon

  • algorithm — (n.) 1690s, from Fr. algorithme, refashioned (under mistaken connection with Gk. arithmos number ) from O.Fr. algorisme the Arabic numeral system (13c.), from M.L. algorismus, a mangled transliteration of Arabic al Khwarizmi native of Khwarazm,… …   Etymology dictionary

  • algorithm — ► NOUN ▪ a process or set of rules used in calculations or other problem solving operations. DERIVATIVES algorithmic adjective. ORIGIN Latin algorismus, from an Arabic word meaning the man of Kw rizm , referring to a 9th century mathematician …   English terms dictionary

  • Algorithm — Flow chart of an algorithm (Euclid s algorithm) for calculating the greatest common divisor (g.c.d.) of two numbers a and b in locations named A and B. The algorithm proceeds by successive subtractions in two loops: IF the test B ≤ A yields yes… …   Wikipedia

  • algorithm — algorithmic, adj. /al geuh ridh euhm/, n. a set of rules for solving a problem in a finite number of steps, as for finding the greatest common divisor. [1890 95; var. of ALGORISM, by assoc. with Gk arithmós number. See ARITHMETIC] * * * Procedure …   Universalium

  • algorithm — n. a sequential set of instructions used in calculations or problem solving. A reconstruction algorithm is a complex mathematical formula used by a computer to construct images from the data acquired by CT, MRI, or other scanners. A diagnostic… …   The new mediacal dictionary

  • algorithm — noun /ˈælɡəɹɪðm/ A precise step by step plan for a computational procedure that begins with an input value and yields an output value in a finite number of steps. Informally, an algorithm is any well defined computational procedure that takes… …   Wiktionary

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