Algorithm
An algorithm is a step-by-step set of rules or instructions designed to perform a specific task or solve a particular problem.
Key Characteristics
- Finite: An algorithm must complete after a finite number of steps.
- Well-defined: Each step must be clear and unambiguous.
- Deterministic (in classical algorithms): The same input always produces the same output.
- Input: Takes zero or more defined inputs.
- Output: Produces at least one result.
Applications
- Computer Science: Sorting, searching, data encryption, machine learning.
- Medicine: Diagnostic workflows, image analysis, treatment decision trees.
- Mathematics: Calculations, equation solving, number theory.
- Neuroscience: Signal processing, tractography, pattern recognition.
Example
- Dijkstra's Algorithm: Finds the shortest path between two points in a graph.
- UKF-2T Algorithm: A tractography method for estimating complex neural fiber trajectories using Unscented Kalman Filters and two-tensor modeling.
Etymology
Derived from the name of Persian mathematician al-Khwārizmī, whose works introduced decimal positional number systems and systematic problem-solving methods to the Western world.