Reduced

Reduced is the past participle of reduce and is used as an adjective to denote something made smaller, fewer, or less in degree, amount, or complexity. It can describe physical size, quantities, or the level of intensity, as in reduced prices, reduced fat content, or a reduced version of a product. In everyday language, the term often implies simplification or a lower state than previously.

In mathematics and related fields, reduced forms convey simplification. A fraction is in reduced (lowest) terms when the numerator and denominator are coprime, obtained by dividing by the greatest common divisor. A mathematical expression may be brought to a reduced form, such as simplifying radicals or expressions. In linear algebra, a matrix can be put into reduced row-echelon form, a canonical representation that reveals rank and solution structure.

In chemistry, reduction is a process involving gain of electrons or a decrease in oxidation state. A substance that has gained electrons is said to be reduced, and a reducing agent supplies electrons to another substance, causing its reduction. The opposite process is oxidation. These concepts underpin redox reactions, energy storage, and various industrial processes.

Other uses include reduced prices in commerce, reduced calorie or sugar content in foods, and reduced pronunciation or forms in linguistics and phonology. The term is also used informally to describe any outcome made smaller or less complex than its antecedent.