parallel offset route (air traffic control). A parallel track to the left or right of the designated or established airway/route. Normally associated with area navigation (RNAV) operations.
parallel operation (computer operation). Data transfer by moving digital words (groups of bits) all at one time. Parallel operation is much faster than serial operation, in which the bits are moved one at a time, but it requires much more complex circuitry.
parallel resonant circuit (electronic circuit). A circuit consisting of an inductor and capacitor connected in parallel. The impedance, or the total opposition to the flow of current, of a parallel resonant circuit is maximum at the frequency to which the circuit is resonant. A parallel resonant circuit is called a tank circuit.

parallel runways. Two or more runways at the same airport whose center lines are parallel. In addition to runway number, parallel runways are designated as L (left) and R (right) or, if three parallel runways exist, L (left), C (center), and R (right).
parallels of latitude. Imaginary lines on the surface of the earth parallel to the equator. Parallels of latitude are used as north and south reference lines for map making and navigation. The equator is the 0° parallel of latitude, the geographic north pole is located at 90° north latitude, and the geographic south pole is located at 90° south latitude.
parallel-wound motor. A DC electric motor whose field coils are connected in parallel with the armature. A parallel-wound motor has a low starting torque, but it operates at a relatively constant speed.

paramagnetic material. A material whose permeability is greater than that of a vacuum (permeability of one) but less than that of a ferromagnetic material. The permeability of a paramagnetic material does not change as the magnetizing force applied to it changes. Some alloys of nickel and titanium are paramagnetic.
parameter. A quantity whose value determines characteristics or behavior. Temperature, pressure, and humidity are parameters of the atmosphere.
parasite drag (aerodynamic drag). A form of aerodynamic drag caused by friction between the air and the surface over which it is flowing. Parasite drag increases as the velocity of the air increases.