a method of solving simultaneous equations by guessing a solution and then reducing the errors that result by successive approximations until all the errors are less than some specified amount
an occurrence of control or strength weakening; "the relaxation of requirements"; "the loosening of his grip"; "the slackening of the wind"
(physics) the exponential return of a system to equilibrium after a disturbance
(physiology) the gradual lengthening of inactive muscle or muscle fibers
(chemistry) a process in which one substance permeates another; a fluid permeates or is dissolved by a liquid or solid
(physics) the process in which incident radiated energy is retained without reflection or transmission on passing through a medium; "the absorption of photons by atoms or molecules"
a mishap caused by something suddenly falling down or caving in
an abrupt failure of function or health
lose significance, effectiveness, or value; "The school system is collapsing"; "The stock market collapsed"
break down, literally or metaphorically; "The wall collapsed"; "The business collapsed"; "The dam broke"; "The roof collapsed"; "The wall gave in"; "The roof finally gave under the weight of the ice"
cause to burst; "The ice broke the pipe"
fold or close up; "fold up your umbrella"; "collapse the music stand"