Relaxation stands quite generally for a release of tension, a return to equilibrium.
Science In the sciences, the term is used in the following ways: Relaxation (physics), and more in particular: Relaxation (NMR), processes by which nuclear magnetization returns to the equilibrium distribution Dielectric relaxation, the delay in the dielectric constant of a material Vibrational energy relaxation, the process by which molecules in high energy quantum states return to the Maxwell-Boltzmann distribution Chemical relaxation methods, related to temperature jump Relaxation oscillator, a type of electronic oscillator
Mathematics Relaxation (approximation), a technique for transforming hard constraints into easier ones Relaxation (iterative method), a technique for the numerical solution of equations Relaxation (extension method), a technique for a natural extension in mathematical optimization or variational problems
Computer science Relaxation (computing), the act of substituting alternative program code during linking
Psychology, physiology, hypnosis, meditation, and recreation Relaxation (psychology), the emotional state of low tension Relaxation technique, an activity that helps a person to relax
Ecclesiastical law Relaxation in person, transfer of a condemned person so that secular authorities execute a death sentence
See also Leisure Tension (music) Relaxation response (disambiguation) Relax (disambiguation)