Permanent facts for kids

Permanent is a word that usually means something will last for a very long time, or even forever! Think of it as the opposite of temporary, which means something only lasts for a short time.

But "permanent" can also mean different things depending on what you're talking about. Let's look at some examples!

What Does Permanent Mean?

When we say something is permanent, it means it's meant to stay. For example, a permanent marker leaves a mark that is hard to remove. A permanent job is one you expect to keep for many years.

Permanent in Math

In mathematics, there's a special idea called a "permanent." It's a type of function that works with matrices. Matrices are like grids of numbers that mathematicians use to solve complex problems. The permanent function helps them understand certain patterns within these number grids. It's a bit like a puzzle piece that fits into bigger math problems.

Permanent Hair Style

Have you ever heard of a "permanent wave," or just a "perm"? This is a popular hair style where chemicals are used to make hair curly or wavy for a long time. The curls aren't temporary; they stay until your hair grows out or you get another treatment. That's why it's called "permanent"!

Permanent in Card Games

In some card games, like Magic: The Gathering, the word "permanent" has a special meaning. When you play a card and it stays on the game board, it's called a "permanent." These cards don't just do something once and then go away; they stay in play and affect the game turn after turn. This makes them a very important part of your strategy!