CRITICAL POINT Definition & Meaning

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critical point

[ krit-i-kuhl point ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Physics. the point at which a substance in one phase, as the liquid, has the same density, pressure, and temperature as in another phase, as the gaseous:
The volume of water at the critical point is uniquely determined by the critical temperature.
Mathematics.
1. (of a function of a single variable) a point at which the derivative of the function is zero:
  One critical point, at x = 0, is a decreasing function for positive x.
2. (of a function of several variables) a point at which all partial derivatives of the function are zero:
  Find and classify all the critical points of the given function.

critical point

noun

physics
1. the point on a phase diagram that represents the critical state of a substance
2. another name for critical state
maths the US name for stationary point

critical point

Physics.
The temperature and pressure at which the liquid and gaseous phases of a pure substance become unstable and fluctuate locally within the substance. The critical point of water is at a temperature of 374°C (705.2°F) and a pressure of 218 atmospheres, at which point it becomes opaque.
Physics.
Compare triple point
Mathematics.
1. A maximum, minimum, or point of inflection of a curve.
2. A point at which the derivative of a function is zero, infinite, or undefined.

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�y��vlog History and Origins

Origin of critical point¹

First recorded in 1875–80

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Needing their running game to click entering the most critical point of the season, the Chargers have rushed for 100 yards in consecutive games for the first time since Weeks 10 and 11.

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Earlier this year, the venue reached a "critical point" and managers did not know if they would be able to pay the wages.

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The most critical point is simple: Corporate media refuses to understand that its own power and influence are the reason millions of Americans believe lies about immigrants, crime-ridden cities and evil, traitorous Democrats.

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The A1104 scheme could not be paused as it was at a critical point, he said.

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What is evident, however, is the Dodgers’ comfort level in depending upon the bullpen at the season’s most critical point.

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