Degrees of Freedom
Degrees of freedom is a general term used to express dependence on parameters, and implies the possibility of counting the number of those parameters. In mathematical terms, the degrees of freedom are the dimensions of a phase space.
Because I’m an ignorant lout, I only learned about this concept today. It’s really useful as a metaphor. (I’m certain I just heard everyone I know that actually understands physics or chemistry cringe*.)
*Yes, I can hear cringes. Can’t you?
