NIST

polynomial approximation scheme

(algorithmic technique)

Definition: A set of algorithms {Aε| ε > 0}, where each Aε is a (1+ε)-approximation algorithm and the execution time is bounded by a polynomial in the length of the input. The execution time may depend on the choice of ε. Sometimes referred to more precisely as polynomial-time approximation scheme.

Also known as PTAS.

See also fully polynomial approximation scheme.

Note: From Algorithms and Theory of Computation Handbook, page 34-17, Copyright © 1999 by CRC Press LLC. Appearing in the Dictionary of Computer Science, Engineering and Technology, Copyright © 2000 CRC Press LLC.

Author: CRC-A


Go to the Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures home page.

If you have suggestions, corrections, or comments, please get in touch with Paul Black.

Entry modified 17 December 2004.
HTML page formatted Wed Mar 13 12:42:46 2019.

Cite this as:
Algorithms and Theory of Computation Handbook, CRC Press LLC, 1999, "polynomial approximation scheme", in Dictionary of Algorithms and Data Structures [online], Paul E. Black, ed. 17 December 2004. (accessed TODAY) Available from: https://www.nist.gov/dads/HTML/polynomaprox.html