random

Ajit R. Jadhav's picture

What is "randomness"?

Does the word "randomness" have antonym? If yes, what is it? Why? What view of randomness does that imply?

The notion of randomness is, of course, basic to both statistical mechanics (or kinetic theory) and quantum mechanics. But these are not the only fields where it is relevant. The notion also appears virtually in any field where probabilities are used. For example, we speak of random loads and vibrations (in structures and machine design), random noise (say, in acoustics), etc. But what does the term "randomness" really mean? Any idea? What would you say? Here, I am here looking for brain storming, so half-baked ideas, side comments, etc. etc. are welcome.


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