Vertex

Vertex can have a number of meanings, dependent on the context.

In geometry, a vertex (Latin: corner; plural vertices) is a corner of a polygon (where two sides meet) or of a polyhedron (where three or more faces and edges meet).

In graph theory, a graph describes a set of connections between objects. Each object is called a node or vertex. The connections themselves are called edges or arcs.

In optics, a vertex (or surface vertex) is the point where the surface of an optical element crosses the optical axis. It is one of the cardinal points of an optical system.

In nuclear and particle physics, a vertex is the interaction point, where some subnuclear process occurs, changing the number and/or momenta of interacting particles or nuclei.

In 3D computer graphics, a vertex is a point in 3D space with a particular location, usually given in terms of its x, y, and z coordinates. It is one of the fundamental structures in polygonal modeling: two vertices, taken together, can be used to define the endpoints of a line; three vertices can be used to define a planar triangle. Vertices are commonly confused with vectors because a vertex can be described as a vector from a coordinate system's origin. They are, however, two completely different things.

In anatomy, the vertex is the highest point of the skull in the anatomical position (i.e. standing upright). It lies between the parietal bones in the median sagittal plane.

In astrology, the vertex is a point in space seen near the Eastern horizon (and the Ascendant) in the two-dimensional horoscope. In astrological theory, planet(s) close to it are supposed to lend their personality to the event(s) that the chart captures.

In addition, there are several companies named "Vertex".

Vertex Software develops web-based customer management solutions.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals is a biotech company, with 2005 revenues of $161 million, that is developing small molecule therapeutics for the treatment of HCV infection, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, cancer, pain, cystic fibrosis and other diseases, both independently and in collaboration with other pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.

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