If I want to say that a problem can be solved by means of introducing some constraints, do I use a definite or an indefinite article for the word introduction ?
(a) The problem can be solved through the introduction of additional constraints.
(b) The problem can be solved through an introduction of additional constraints.
To me it doesn't look like a possessive form which would require a definite article, however, the sounds more familiar to me with the word introduction. I am not sure though.
I have the same doubts about a phrase removal:
(a) This entails the removal of element 47 from X.
(b) This entails a removal of element 47 from X.
the
. While neither is technically incorrect,the
makes it sound stronger, as though you are introducing additional constraints, rather than just that somebody should. In English, usually go with your gut.