matrix

• Substantiv mit mehreren Bedeutungen: in der Mathematik eine rechteckige Anordnung von Zahlen oder Ausdrücken; in der Geologie das feinkörnige Gestein, das Fossilien oder Edelsteine umgibt; in der Biologie die Substanz, in die Zellen eingebettet sind; oder allgemein die Umgebung, in der sich etwas entwickelt.

A noun with multiple meanings: in mathematics, a rectangular array of numbers or expressions; in geology, the fine-grained rock surrounding fossils or gems; in biology, the substance in which cells are embedded; or a general term for an environment in which something develops.

1. Mathematical arrayB2formalscientific

   A rectangular arrangement of numbers, symbols, or expressions organized into rows and columns, treated as a single mathematical object.

   Matrix

   • The student solved the system of equations using a matrix.
   • Matrices are widely used in computer graphics and physics.
   • We multiplied two matrices to find the transformation.
   • The identity matrix is a special case where diagonal entries are one.

   Synonymearraygridtable

2. Geological matrixC1formalscientific

   The fine-grained material in which larger grains, fossils, crystals, or gems are embedded within a rock.

   Matrix (Geologie)

   • Geologists examined the matrix surrounding the quartz crystal.
   • The fossil was extracted from the calcareous matrix.
   • The diamond was found embedded in a dark volcanic matrix.
   • Analysis of the rock matrix revealed traces of ancient organic matter.

   Synonymecementgroundmass

3. Enclosure or environmentC1formal

   A surrounding structure or environment in which something develops, originates, or is embedded.

   Umgebung oder Umfeld

   • The city became a matrix for cultural innovation.
   • This matrix of ideas shaped the early modern period.
   • The cell exists within a matrix of connective tissue.
   • The matrix of social relationships influences individual behavior.

   Synonymebreeding groundcontextcradleenvironmenthotbedmediumnestseedbedsettingwomb

4. Biological extracellular matrixC1formalmedical

   The substance between cells that provides structural and biochemical support, composed of proteins and other molecules.

   Extrazelluläre Matrix

   • The extracellular matrix is crucial for tissue repair.
   • Collagen is a major component of the connective tissue matrix.
   • Cells interact with the matrix through specialized receptors.
   • The matrix determines the mechanical properties of cartilage.

   Synonymeecm

5. Nail matrixB2formalmedical

   The formative tissue located at the base of a fingernail or toenail that produces the nail plate.

   Nagelmatrix

   • Injury to the nail matrix can cause permanent nail deformity.
   • The doctor examined the matrix to assess the nail growth.
   • Fungal infections can damage the nail matrix.
   • The matrix is responsible for the thickness and shape of the nail.

6. Mold for reproductionC1formaltechnical

   A mold or die used in manufacturing to produce relief surfaces, such as in printing or phonograph records.

   Matrize

   • The printer used a metal matrix to stamp the letters.
   • A wax matrix was used to create the master record.
   • The coin's design was pressed from a hardened matrix.
   • Early typographers carved matrices by hand for each letter.

   Synonymedieformmatmoldstamptemplate