Term: genetic algorithm
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.GT06961

Definition:
A genetic algorithm is an optimization algorithm based on the mechanisms of Darwinian evolution which uses random mutation, crossover and selection procedures to breed better models or solutions from an originally random starting population or sample.

Related Terms:
1) mutation (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.M04074).

Source: PAC, 1997, 69, 1137. 'Glossary of terms used in computational drug design (IUPAC Recommendations 1997)' on page 1144 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199769051137)

Citation: 'genetic algorithm' in IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 5th ed. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; 2025. Online version 5.0.0, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.GT06961

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