TRANSPOSITION TABLE Meaning and
Definition
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A transposition table is a data structure used in computer science and artificial intelligence, particularly in the field of game-playing algorithms. It is primarily utilized in games with extensive search spaces, such as chess, where the number of possible moves is too vast to explore exhaustively.
In a nutshell, a transposition table stores previously calculated search results for specific game positions, allowing for faster computation and more efficient exploration of the game tree. It takes advantage of the fact that different move sequences can lead to the same game state, known as transpositions, to avoid redundant evaluations.
The table works by associating a unique hash value with each game position encountered during the search. This hash value is derived from the state of the game board and is used as an index in the table. The table then stores pertinent information about the position, such as the best move found, the associated game score, and other relevant data.
When exploring the search tree, the transposition table is consulted to check if the current game position has been previously evaluated. If so, the stored information is retrieved and used to avoid redundant computations. This caching technique significantly reduces the time and computational overhead required to evaluate game positions.
Overall, a transposition table acts as a memory repository that enhances the efficiency of game-playing algorithms by exploiting repeated positions and reducing the effort required to solve complex problems with massive search spaces.
Etymology of TRANSPOSITION TABLE
The term "transposition table" is a compound noun that consists of two main parts: "transposition" and "table".
- Transposition: The word "transposition" comes from the Latin word "transponere", which means "to place across" or "to change the position or order of". It is derived from the prefix "trans-" meaning "across" and the verb "ponere" meaning "to place". The concept of transposition in chess refers to the rearrangement of moves or positions in a different order.
- Table: The word "table" originates from the Latin word "tabula", which describes a flat or smooth surface. In this context, it refers to a data structure or a storage space where information is organized in a tabular form.
