TANGENCY Meaning and
Definition
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Tangency is a term used in mathematics and geometry to describe the condition in which two curves or surfaces meet or touch at a single point without intersecting.
In the context of curves, tangency refers to the state in which two curves share a common point, called the point of tangency. At this point, the two curves have the same slope, meaning that they have the same direction. Tangency between curves can be described as a momentary connection or contact, where the curves share a common point and direction before diverging.
Similarly, in the case of surfaces, tangency occurs when two surfaces touch at a single point without crossing or intersecting each other. The point at which they touch is called the point of tangency, and it represents a point of contact between the two surfaces.
Tangency plays a significant role in various mathematical concepts and applications. For instance, in calculus and differential geometry, the notion of tangency is used to describe the relationship between functions and their derivatives. Tangent lines and tangent planes are commonly used to approximate the behavior of a curve or surface at a specific point. Tangency is crucial in many real-world applications such as engineering, physics, and computer graphics, where it helps in calculating contact points, determining the direction of motion, or designing smooth and efficient surfaces.
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Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TANGENCY
Etymology of TANGENCY
The word tangency comes from the Latin word tangentia, derived from the verb tangere, meaning to touch. The suffix -ency in English is used to form abstract nouns from verbs or adjectives, so tangency means the state or quality of being tangent or the act of touching.
Similar spelling words for TANGENCY
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