MULTIPLE PRECISION Meaning and
Definition
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Multiple precision, also known as arbitrary precision or bignum arithmetic, refers to a numerical computing technique that allows calculations with numbers of arbitrary size or precision, exceeding the limitations of fixed-size data types typically used by conventional computer hardware.
In traditional computer systems, numbers are represented using fixed-size data types, such as integers or floating-point numbers, which have a predetermined number of bits allocated for storage. Consequently, these data types have a maximum limit on the magnitude or precision of the numbers they can represent. When dealing with extremely large or highly accurate numbers, these limitations pose a significant constraint.
Multiple precision arithmetic overcomes these limitations by storing numbers as sequences of digits or bits, dynamically allocating memory to accommodate any arbitrary size or precision required for the calculations. The digits or bits are stored in arrays or structures, enabling the representation and manipulation of numbers with virtually unlimited magnitude and precision.
This technique allows for precise and accurate computations in fields such as cryptography, numerical analysis, and computer algebra systems. Multiple precision arithmetic ensures that arithmetic operations, like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, can be performed with high accuracy, retaining all significant digits throughout the computation.
However, multiple precision arithmetic comes at the cost of increased computational complexity and memory requirements compared to fixed-size arithmetic. Therefore, its usage is primarily focused on specialized applications where the need for extended precision outweighs the associated performance trade-offs.
Common Misspellings for MULTIPLE PRECISION
- nultiple precision
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Etymology of MULTIPLE PRECISION
The etymology of the word "multiple precision" is composed of two parts:
1. Multiple: The term "multiple" comes from the Latin word "multiplus", which combines "multi-" (meaning "many" or "much") and "-plus" (meaning "more" or "added"). It refers to the concept of having more than one or many of something. In the case of "multiple precision", it signifies the ability to work with numbers that have more digits or precision than what is typically supported by standard computer hardware or data types.
2. Precision: The term "precision" has its roots in the Latin word "praecisus", which means "cut off" or "narrow". It refers to the level of detail or accuracy in measurement or representation.
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