quasiunique

Quasiunique is a term used in mathematics, particularly in abstract algebra and number theory, to describe objects or properties that are unique up to a certain equivalence relation, but not strictly unique. It suggests a level of uniqueness that is almost absolute, but with a specific, defined set of allowable variations.

For example, in number theory, a prime factorization of an integer is considered unique up to the order of the factors. This means that while the prime numbers themselves are fixed, their arrangement in the factorization can differ. This property is often described as quasiunique. If the order of factors were irrelevant, it would be strictly unique.

Similarly, in abstract algebra, certain structures or elements might be considered quasiunique if they are the same under an isomorphism. An isomorphism is a structure-preserving map between two algebraic structures. If two structures are isomorphic, they are considered equivalent for many purposes, even if they are not identical in their representation. The "uniqueness" then refers to being unique within a class of isomorphic structures.

The concept of quasiuniqueness is important because it allows for a more flexible understanding of uniqueness in mathematical contexts where strict identity is not always the most useful or relevant criterion. It acknowledges that different representations can embody the same essential mathematical properties.