phase space

noun

, Physics.

1. a hypothetical space constructed so as to have as many coordinates as are necessary to define the state of a given substance or system.

Word History and Origins

Origin of phase space¹

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

To ponder this problem, physicists have abandoned the familiar backdrop of 3D space and moved to an abstract arena known as “phase space.”

From Scientific American

For instance, Thorne and Blandford's geometrical approach leads directly to the invariant number density of states in phase space in relativity.

From Nature

Rather than true probability, negative values make this a quasi-probability distribution in phase space.

From Nature

Floating in a boundless inter-dimensional phase space, Strange sees an “S” of earths collapsing into red cosmic dust, headed toward a galactic spire of doom.

From The Guardian

This is related to the mathematical construct of a 'caustic', a formal singularity or concentration in phase space.

From Scientific American