Gibbs algorithm

proper noun

A criterion for choosing a probability distribution for the statistical ensemble of microstates of a thermodynamic system by minimizing the average log probability ⟨ ln p_i⟩=∑ᵢp_i ln p_i,, subject to the probability distribution pᵢ satisfying a set of constraints (usually expectation values) corresponding to the known macroscopic quantities.

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Meanings

proper nounthe Gibbs algorithm
  1. statistical mechanicsA criterion for choosing a probability distribution for the statistical ensemble of microstates of a thermodynamic system by minimizing the average log probability ⟨ ln p_i⟩=∑ᵢp_i ln p_i,, subject to the probability distribution pᵢ satisfying a set of constraints (usually expectation values) corresponding to the known macroscopic quantities.

Origin

Named after Josiah Willard Gibbs, who introduced it in 1902.

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Cite this entry
APA

Gibbs algorithm. (n.d.). In WatkinsX Dictionary. Retrieved November 3, 2026, from https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gibbs%20algorithm

MLA

“Gibbs algorithm.” WatkinsX Dictionary, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gibbs%20algorithm. Accessed November 3, 2026.

Chicago

WatkinsX Dictionary, s.v. “Gibbs algorithm,” accessed November 3, 2026, https://dictionary.watkinsx.com/word/Gibbs%20algorithm.

Source: Gibbs algorithm on Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0.