lögmál

Lögmál is the Icelandic term for a general law or principle that describes a regularity observed in nature or a formal rule in mathematics. A lögmál is typically stated succinctly and, when possible, expressed as an equation or a concise relationship. It is distinguished from a hypothesis or a specific observation by its broad applicability and, in many cases, by being supported by substantial evidence or derivation.

In science, lögmál describe how systems behave under specified conditions. They are often formulated as mathematical relationships and named after their discoverers. Examples include Newton's laws of motion, Ohm's law, Boyle's law, Hooke's law, and the ideal gas law (PV = nRT). These laws are used to predict outcomes, guide experiments, and provide a compact framework for understanding physical phenomena. They may be exact within their domain of validity or approximate when conditions deviate from the idealized assumptions.

In mathematics and logic, lögmál refer to fundamental rules that govern operations and reasoning. Examples include the distributive, commutative, and associative laws, as well as logical laws and identities such as De Morgan's laws. These statements hold universally within the established axiomatic system and are essential tools for derivations and proofs.

Limitations and evolution are part of the concept: a lögmál is not a universal theorem and may have limited applicability or be refined as new evidence or theories emerge. The term is widely used in Icelandic scientific and mathematical literature to denote these essential, general rules.