Homonym: Ternary (Threefold)
A ternary system is a type of system that involves three distinct components or phases. In mathematics and computer science, a ternary operation is one that takes three inputs, unlike binary operations that only take two. Ternary can also refer to a ternary numeral system, which uses three digits: 0, 1, and 2, instead of the two digits used in the binary system.
In chemistry, a ternary compound consists of three different elements. For example, sodium sulfate is a ternary compound made up of sodium, sulfur, and oxygen. Ternary systems are important in various fields, including computer programming, mathematics, and chemistry, as they help in understanding complex interactions and relationships.