magic number
The term 'magic number' has various meanings across different fields such as nuclear physics, sports, and computing, each indicating a significant or special value.
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Definition
C2Nuclear Physics
(technical, academic)A specific count of protons or neutrons in an atomic nucleus that results in a particularly stable configuration.
Example
- The nucleus with a magic number of 82 protons is exceptionally stable.
B2Sports
(informal)The number of wins needed by a team, combined with losses by its rivals, to secure a playoff spot or championship.
Example
- The team's magic number to clinch the division is down to three.
C1Computing
(technical)A specific value used in code to identify a file type, protocol, or serve as a placeholder, often without explanation.
Example
- The file starts with a magic number to identify its format.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "magic number":
magic wordgolden numbernumbers gameunknown numberrandom number