Theorem

( Théoreme, Fr. ) In mathematics, a proposition which is purely speculative and tends to the discovery of some hidden truth. An universal Theorem , in mathematics, is one that extends universally to any quantity without restriction; as that the rectangle of the sum, and difference of any two quantities, is equal to the difference of their squares. A particular Theorem is when it extends only to a particular quantity. A negative Theorem is one that demonstrates the impo ibilities of an a ertion, as that the sum of two biquadrate numbers cannot make a square. A local Theorem . That which relates to surface; as the triangles of the same base and altitude are equal.