Matrix (computer science)
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In computer programming a matrix is a two dimensional array. An array is a list of data values. A matrix, or two dimensional array is a list of values that cross two axes and would appear, conceptually, as a grid.
A multiplication table could be an example of a matrix.
A more complex example would be an object-oriented environment class tree in a scripting language, such as Java or C and it's "successor" languages, like C++. In fact any programming language with a similar class structure could be described as a matrix: in a class tree each class that is "called" to perform its function is equivalent to an indexing entry on a conventional, two-dimensional array. For example, if Class A is initiated by the user, and part of its function is to call class B, then their combined output can be seen as equivalent to cross-referencing A and B on the two axes of a two-dimensional array. The major difference in object-oriented programming is that A and B may have any number of sub-classes, each of which could in theory have a reason to be called by or call on A or B, (for example to examine whether conditional criteria have been met or not) thus influencing the output of the matrix/array. In this regard it would be impossible to depict accurately on a single two-dimensional grid array.
[edit] Other meanings in computer science
Matrix was also a term used to describe FidoNet by the Opus BBS software and the sysops of FidoNet, as well as a term interchangeable with cyberspace and "the network" before the advent of the publicly-available internet (circa 1992 at the last dated document to use this term), and indeed was also a contemporaneous term for the sum total of all computer networks then in existence.
In these latter senses or near variations on them, "matrix" has permeated into popular culture, from the Gallifreyan "virtual reality" of Doctor Who in the 1970's, the Creation Matrix of the Transformers franchise (from the 1980's onwards, especially in the original comic book line), and of course The Matrix and its sequels.
[edit] See also
[edit] Notes
- ↑ The information in this paragraph is taken from "The Jargon File, version 2.9.10, 01 Jul 1992", in a printed form which was distributed through CEGB training centres.
