An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. The act of solving a problem, question. The state of being solved.
   

2a) Math.: The process of determining the answer to a problem. The answer itself.

2b) Math.: Of a differential equation, any function which, when put into the equation, converts it into an identity.

3. Chem.: The process by which a gas, liquid, or solid is dispersed homogeneously in a gas, liquid, or solid without chemical change. a homogeneous, molecular mixture of two or more substances.

See also: Verbal noun of → solve.