TeXipedia

shortparallel

Represents a shortened parallel symbol used in mathematical notation to indicate parallel relationships between geometric objects or algebraic expressions.

Overview

Provides a more compact alternative to the standard parallel symbol, particularly useful in tight mathematical expressions or when vertical space is limited.

  • Common in geometry for denoting parallel lines, planes, or vectors
  • Used in abstract algebra to indicate parallel structures or isomorphisms
  • Particularly valuable in displayed equations where the standard parallel symbol might create excessive vertical spacing
  • Often preferred in textbook typography and professional mathematical typesetting for its balanced appearance

Examples

Expressing parallel resistance in an electrical circuit.

Rtotal=R1R2R1R2R_{\text{total}} = \frac{R_1 R_2}{R_1 \shortparallel R_2}
R_{\text{total}} = \frac{R_1 R_2}{R_1 \shortparallel R_2}

Denoting parallel lines in geometry.

l1l2    slope(l1)=slope(l2)l_1 \shortparallel l_2 \implies \text{slope}(l_1) = \text{slope}(l_2)
l_1 \shortparallel l_2 \implies \text{slope}(l_1) = \text{slope}(l_2)

Indicating parallel composition of processes in computer science.

PQRP \shortparallel Q \shortparallel R
P \shortparallel Q \shortparallel R