Markov chain

[mahr-kawf] /ˈmɑr kɔf/

noun, Statistics.

a Markov process restricted to discrete random events or to discontinuous time sequences.

Also, Markoff chain.

Origin

1940-45; see Markov process

British Dictionary definitions for Markov chain

Markov chain

/ˈmɑːkɒf/

noun

(statistics) a sequence of events the probability for each of which is dependent only on the event immediately preceding it

Word Origin

C20: named after Andrei Markov (1856–1922), Russian mathematician

Markov chain in Technology

probability
(Named after Andrei Markov) A model of sequences of events where the probability of an event occurring depends upon the fact that a preceding event occurred.
A Markov process is governed by a Markov chain.
In simulation, the principle of the Markov chain is applied to the selection of samples from a probability density function to be applied to the model. Simscript II.5 uses this approach for some modelling functions.
[Better explanation?]
(1995-02-23)