Glossary Entry: Random Number Generator
Quick Definition
A random number generator is a function that provides a computer program with a steady stream of random numbers. These are used for everything from encryption to your favorite music player's shuffle feature, making them a core part of software as we know it today.
However, most random number generators do not actually produce truly random number sequences, as this just isn't possible using math alone. To compensate for this defect, they use fancy equations and a seed to produce what looks like randomness. A popular example of such a function is the Mersenne Twister
.
More advanced methods of generating random numbers tend to be pretty bizarre, such as Lavarand, which generates random numbers by taking pictures of a wall full of active lava lamps.
However, most random number generators do not actually produce truly random number sequences, as this just isn't possible using math alone. To compensate for this defect, they use fancy equations and a seed to produce what looks like randomness. A popular example of such a function is the Mersenne Twister
.More advanced methods of generating random numbers tend to be pretty bizarre, such as Lavarand
, which generates random numbers by taking pictures of a wall full of active lava lamps.
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