Bessel function

noun

Bes·​sel function ˈbe-səl- How to pronounce Bessel function (audio)
: one of a class of transcendental functions expressible as infinite series and occurring in the solution of the differential equation {latex}x^{2}\frac{d^{2}y}{dx^{2}} + x\frac{dy}{dx} = (n^2 - x^2)y{/latex}

Word History

Etymology

Friedrich W. Bessel †1846 Prussian astronomer

First Known Use

1862, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Bessel function was in 1862

Dictionary Entries Near Bessel function

Cite this Entry

“Bessel function.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Bessel%20function. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

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