ikkesymmetrisk

Ikkesymmetrisk, sometimes written as icke-symmetrisk, is a term used to describe an object, relation, or structure that is not symmetric with respect to one or more symmetry operations. The word combines the prefix icke- meaning "not" with symmetrisk meaning "symmetric." In practice, the term is used across disciplines to indicate a lack of symmetry in geometry, algebra, or physical systems, and can refer to both geometric shapes and mathematical objects such as matrices.

In geometry, a figure is non-symmetric if it lacks mirror or rotational symmetry. Examples include a scalene triangle, an irregular polygon, or an asymmetric sculpture. In linear algebra, a matrix is non-symmetric when A ≠ A^T. In graph theory, the adjacency pattern of a directed graph is generally asymmetric.

Non-symmetry has implications for properties such as invariance under transformations, spectral characteristics, or physical behavior. It is often contrasted with symmetry, which implies invariance and can simplify analysis. The term is sometimes used interchangeably with asymmetrisk in Swedish contexts, though asymmetrisk is more common in technical usage.

See also: symmetry, asymmetry, asymmetric encryption, non-symmetric matrix, mirror symmetry.