There are different methods used for measuring areas, distances, speed, boundaries, etc. All of which have different formulas and terms associated with them. However, some of them seem confusing such as, Parameter and Perimeter are one of them. These two terms are not only used in fields like science, mathematics but also in mainstream language.
Parameter vs Perimeter
The main difference between a Parameter and Perimeter is that a parameter refers to a quantifiable characteristic, and Perimeter refers to the measurement of a path surrounding an area. A parameter can be used for a value in an experiment or equation. A perimeter is used for measuring the surrounding area.
In simple terms, a parameter is something that refers to limitations. In mathematics, a parameter can be used as a constant in an equation or as a variable in science. However, the term is not only used in maths or science but also in any operation or activity for setting limitations.
In simple terms, a perimeter refers to an outline of an enclosed area. There is a defined formula in existence for calculating the perimeter of an enclosed area. The term perimeter is different for different areas, like a house- property line, a region- state border, or a country- national border.
Comparison Table Between Parameter and Perimeter
| Parameters of Comparison | Parameter | Perimeter |
| Value | It represents a certain constant value in the process of an experiment, an equation, or a calculation. | It represents a value that is acquired by sum of the distance of all the lengths of the sides of any object. |
| Mathematics | It is used as a measurable factor in a system. | It is used as the boundary of a geometric figure. |
| Language | It represents a specified limit for tangible as well as intangible property. | It represents a boundary or surrounding area for tangible as well as intangible property. |
| Mathematical Example | It made the truck one of the best trucks, according to the parameters set. | The perimeter of a square is measured by 4s, where s represents the length of each side. |
| Language Example | “You are given a difficult project, but you have been given parameters”. | “He’s protecting himself by setting a perimeter of backup plans”. |
What is Parameter?
The word Parameter has derived from the word meaning. Parameters represent limitations. Every experiment, equation, operation, or even situation can have parameters. Parameters can be set for physical or mental assets. These parameters are either set by an authority or the individual himself.
In science or mathematics, the parameters set for an experiment or equation cannot be changed, for example, the number of elements to be used in an experiment or numbers in an equation. This is because they are based on previous research, and in the future, will be a base for the future ones.
Also, in the case of conducting operations, one needs to follow the set parameters, for example, Parameters of debate or assignment or strategies. However, the parameters set for operations and situations can be manipulated. These changes depend upon the choice of an individual, For example, morals or ethics or parameters of politics. It functions as a constant or a factor that defines the limitations.
A parameter helps in performing the set of tasks or functions. It helps in having a systematic procedure within the set rules. It is essential in determining, identifying, characterizing, reviewing the performance and status of data, including human and non-human factors. It has furthermore meanings associated with functions, disciplines, attributes, and more.
What is Perimeter?
Perimeter represents a boundary- a boundary or the area enclosing a property. It is a path surrounding a certain two-dimensional shape. The formula for obtaining perimeters for different shapes is different. For example, The perimeter of a square is obtained by 4s, the perimeter of a rectangle is obtained by 2L+ 2 W, the perimeter of a triangle is obtained by adding all sides, and so on.
The perimeter of a circle or an ellipse is called a circumference. In general, it is an outline of all the shapes and areas, for example, A perimeter of a rectangular building or the perimeter of a circular playground or the perimeter of a triangular pyramid.
The perimeter of an enclosed area or even an object has multiple practical applications. For example, A perimeter of a house can help in estimating the building material required for creating a boundary and its estimated cost. A wheel’s perimeter helps in acquiring the distance it can cover in one round or one revolution. The perimeter of a pool can help the swimmer in estimating the time required to complete the swim. In mainstream language, the perimeter can be used about the boundaries of an individual.
Main Differences Parameter and Perimeter
- The parameter represents a certain constant value in the process of an experiment, an equation, or a calculation. Perimeter represents a value that is acquired by the sum of the distance of all the lengths of the sides of any object.
- A parameter is used as a measurable factor in a system. Perimeter is used as the boundary of a geometric figure.
- The parameter represents a specified limit for tangible as well as intangible property. Whereas, Perimeter represents a boundary or surrounding area for tangible as well as intangible property.
- The usage of a) parameter and b) perimeter in mathematics can be explained with the following examples; a)It made the truck one of the best trucks, according to the parameters set. b)The perimeter of a square is measured by 4s, where s represents the length of each side.
- The usage of a) parameter and b) perimeter in language can be explained with the following examples; a)“You are given a difficult project, but you have been given parameters”. b)“He’s protecting himself by setting a perimeter of backup plans”.
Conclusion
Parameter and Perimeter are some of the terms that some of times confuse people. However, both of them have similar but distinctive meanings. They both represent different values. In terms of usage, Parameter is more of a limitation, and perimeter a boundary line. There are different formulas in existence used for the purpose of calculating both parameters and perimeters.
Parameter and Perimeter have varied applications and importance in fields like mathematics, science, physics, construction, and even language. And hence it is important that both the terms should be used appropriately and not interchangeably.
References
- https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-540-69972-9_4
- <a href=\”https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1890/1051-0761(1999)009[1448:TRIOPA]2.0.CO;2″>https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1890/1051-0761(1999)009[1448:TRIOPA]2.0.CO;2