Base
In mathematics, base refers to:
- The number which is raised to a given power. This finds common use, for example, in the depiction of numbers, for instance, 10 is the base used in the decimal system, whereas 2 is the base in the binary system. See also Number system.
- One of the parallel sides of a trapezoid or the unequal side of an isosceles triangle.
- Another mathematical meaning is described in the topology glossary.
In chemistry, a base is the reactive complement to an acid. (Sometimes the term alkali has been used historically where base is now preferred.) See Acid-base reaction theories. Technically, a substance capable of neutralizing acid, with a pH greater than 7.0. See pH.
In biochemistry, the term base carries the same meaning from chemistry, but more often refers to specific organic bases, especially those purines and pyrimidines that are found in nucleic acids.
In baseball, a base is one of 3 bags placed at corners of the infield diamond that a player has to run to after hitting the ball.
In a transistor the base is the controlling connection to the junction.
The name of the terrorist group Al-Qaida translates as "the base."
In 2001, the catchphrase "All your base are belong to us" swept across the Internet. It came from a poorly translated video game called Zero Wing.
BASE jumping is a popular variation on skydiving.