Homomorphism

1. Resemblance or similarity of form, structure or function (e.g. external features) with different fundamental structure, whether between different organisms, groups, organizations, etc., or between different parts of the same organism, group, organization, etc.

2. The basis of a mapping procedure by which reality is mapped onto a scientific model by a many-one transformation (correspondence) between the elements of the sets being mapped (i.e., reality and the model). While not isomorphic, the transformation can be arranged so that certain operational characteristics concerning the relationship of elements are preserved.