Parameters

Parameters are a fundamental concept in Computer Science, Mathematics, and Statistics. They are used to define the characteristics of a system, function, or model. In different contexts, parameters may refer to different things, but they generally represent variables that define a system and determine its behavior.

Definition

In Computer Science, a parameter is a special kind of variable, used in a Subroutine to refer to one of the pieces of data provided as input to the subroutine. These pieces of data are called arguments. An ordered list of parameters is usually included in the definition of a subroutine, so that, each time the subroutine is called, its arguments for that call can be assigned to the corresponding parameters.

In Mathematics, a parameter is a quantity that influences the output or behavior of a mathematical model but is viewed as being held constant. Parameters are closely related to Variables, and the difference often depends on how the term is used.

In Statistics, a parameter is a value that describes a characteristic of an entire population. Parameters are often used in statistical models to represent a characteristic that is being estimated or tested.

Usage

Computer Science

In computer programming, parameters are often used to determine the behavior of a subroutine. For example, a subroutine might take a number as a parameter and then perform a certain operation based on that number. Parameters can also be used to pass data between different parts of a program.

Mathematics

In mathematics, parameters are often used in equations and functions to represent a constant value. For example, in the equation y = mx + b, m and b are parameters that determine the slope and y-intercept of the line, respectively.

Statistics

In statistics, parameters are used to describe characteristics of a population. For example, the mean and standard deviation are parameters that describe the central tendency and dispersion of a population, respectively.

See Also

• Variable (mathematics)
• Function (mathematics)
• Subroutine
• Statistical parameter