ELEMENTARY FUNCTION Meaning and
Definition
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An elementary function is a mathematical function that can be created from a combination of arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) and applying a finite number of algebraic operations (exponents, roots, logarithms), as well as trigonometric, exponential, and inverse trigonometric functions. These functions are considered basic building blocks in mathematics.
Elementary functions are typically defined in a closed form, meaning that they can be expressed using a finite number of well-known mathematical symbols and operations. They can also be evaluated for any given input within their defined domain. Examples of elementary functions include polynomials, rational functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, trigonometric functions (such as sine, cosine, tangent), and inverse trigonometric functions (such as arcsine, arccosine, arctangent).
Elementary functions play a fundamental role in many areas of mathematics, physics, engineering, and other scientific disciplines. They are extensively utilized in the development of mathematical models, algorithms, and computational techniques. These functions offer a means to describe and analyze various mathematical phenomena, including growth, oscillations, periodicity, and rates of change, among others.
It is important to note that although elementary functions encompass a wide range of functions, there exist functions that cannot be expressed as elementary functions. These functions, referred to as transcendental functions, include the elliptic functions, Bessel functions, and hypergeometric functions, among others.
Etymology of ELEMENTARY FUNCTION
The word "elementary" in the term "elementary function" originates from the Latin word "elementarius", which means "pertaining to the elements". In its original usage, "elementary" referred to the fundamental ideas in various fields of knowledge, such as mathematics, physics, or chemistry.
The term "elementary function" specifically emerged in mathematics to describe mathematical functions that are considered basic or foundational. These functions are usually defined as algebraic combinations of familiar functions like polynomials, exponentials, logarithms, trigonometric functions, and their inverses. They are elementary in the sense that they can be easily understood and handled using mathematical techniques and tools available at an elementary level of mathematical education. The concept of elementary functions developed over time as mathematicians sought to classify and understand various types of functions.
