Symbols & Glossary
Every glyph below carries exactly one meaning across the whole site. Where a symbol is first defined rigorously, its row cites the derivation that introduces it — follow the cite to see the object built from scratch, not merely named.
| S |
Action
Functional of a path; SI units J·s. The quantity a physical trajectory renders stationary.
|
intro d-001 |
| L |
Lagrangian
Equal to T−V for a large class of systems; SI units J. Integrand of the action.
|
intro d-001 |
| ℋ |
Hamiltonian
Legendre transform of L in the velocities; generates time evolution. Equals total energy when L has no explicit time dependence.
|
intro d-004 |
| β |
Inverse temperature
Defined as 1/kT with k the Boltzmann constant; SI units J−1. Natural variable of the canonical ensemble.
|
intro d-013 |
| ψ |
Wavefunction
Probability amplitude; |ψ|2 is a probability density. Complex-valued state of a quantum system.
|
intro d-007 |
Glossary
Plain-language definitions of recurring terms — functional, stationary path, degree of freedom, ensemble, observable. Each entry states the term in one sentence, then links to the first derivation where it does real work.
Tier 2 entries add the operational definition (how the quantity is measured or computed).
Constants
Fundamental constants used sitewide with fixed symbols: c speed of light ℏ reduced Planck k Boltzmann G gravitation.
Values are quoted to the precision each derivation needs; a units check accompanies every appearance so dimensions are always auditable.