holonomy

Noun. (context, differential geometry) Given a smooth closed curve ''C'' on a surface ''M'', and picking any point ''P'' on that curve, the holonomy of ''C'' in ''M'' is the angle by which some vector turns as it is parallel transported along the curve ''C'' from point ''P'' all the way around and back to point ''P''.

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This entry was last updated on RefTopia from its source on 3/20/2012.