gammaprime

Gammaprime is a term used in multiple disciplines with meanings that depend on the context. In materials science, gamma prime (often written γ') refers to a specific intermetallic precipitate that strengthens nickel-based superalloys. The γ' phase is typically Ni3(Al,Ti) and adopts an ordered L12 crystal structure. It forms coherently with the surrounding gamma (γ) matrix, producing a highly effective barrier to dislocation motion. Through age-hardening heat treatments, the size, distribution, and volume fraction of γ' precipitates can be tuned to enhance high-temperature strength and creep resistance, which is crucial for components such as turbine blades. Alloys in the Inconel and Rene families rely on γ' stability for performance at elevated temperatures.

In mathematics, gamma prime is sometimes used informally to denote the derivative of the gamma function Γ(z) with respect to its argument. The standard derivative is written Γ'(z), and it satisfies Γ'(z) = Γ(z)ψ(z), where ψ is the digamma function. Although some texts may refer to this derivative as gamma prime, the conventional notation is Γ'(z). The term can also appear in discussions of generalized or modified gamma functions, depending on author conventions.

Beyond these uses, gammaprime (γ') may appear as a symbol for a modified or secondary parameter γ in various models across disciplines. Because the meaning is highly context-dependent, readers should consult field-specific definitions to interpret γ'. The one-word form gammaprime is uncommon in formal literature; references typically present the term as "gamma prime" or use the symbol γ'.