Adventures in Raspberry Pi, 2nd Edition

algorithm A set of rules to be followed to calculate or solve a problem. Common algorithms are those used for sorting information or data.

argument A piece of information given to a function, which the function then uses to perform its task. The argument goes inside the brackets that follow the function name. In the function time.sleep(2), for example, you use the argument (2), which is the number of seconds you want the program to wait before executing the next line.

boot The first thing a computer does when you turn it on is to start up, or boot, the operating system.

breadboard A reusable device that allows you to create circuits without needing to solder all the components. Breadboards have a number of holes into which you push wires or jumper cables and components to create circuits. The two columns of holes on either side of the breadboard are for power. The column next to the red line is for positive connections and the column next to the blue line is for negative connections.

broadcast A message used to coordinate the actions of different sprites and the stage in Scratch. The broadcast message keeps all the scripts running for each sprite and keeps the stage synchronized.

capacitor Electronic component used to store an electric charge. The capacity of this component is measured in farads (F). A farad is a very large quantity, so most of the capacitors you see will be ...