Is there a mathematical symbol for expressing one function in terms of another?

In summary, the conversation discusses the mathematical symbol for "in terms of" and whether or not it exists. The speaker also provides a solution to a trigonometry problem using only sin(x) and mentions the importance of using identities to convert functions.
  • #1
nanoWatt
88
2
math symbol for "in terms of"

If there was a simple trig problem like express cos(x) / tan(x) in terms of sin(x).

I can't seem to find the mathematical symbol for doing "in terms of". I'm learning on my own, and don't yet have my calculus book, so I'm just reviewing sample problems, but they just say "in terms of" without any symbols.

I know the answer is 1/sin(x) - sin(x)

But for myself, I'm just wondering.
 
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  • #2
I don't think there is a symbol for that phrase.
 
  • #3
Apparently they lack a symbol, that's why the write it out: "In terms of.."
 
  • #4
You need to make use of identities to convert all functions into equivalent forms using only sin(x). Your exercise problem should already be designed for this to be possible.
Do you have a specific exercise as an example?
 
  • #5
I pretty much know the answer:

cos(x) / tan(x) in terms of sin(x) = 1/sin(x) - sin(x)

I didn't need help solving it. I just wondered if there was a mathematical construct for in terms of.

symbolipoint said:
You need to make use of identities to convert all functions into equivalent forms using only sin(x). Your exercise problem should already be designed for this to be possible.
Do you have a specific exercise as an example?
 

FAQ: Is there a mathematical symbol for expressing one function in terms of another?

1) What does the math symbol "in terms of" mean?

The symbol "in terms of" is typically used in mathematical equations to indicate that the variable following the phrase is the one being solved for or represented in the equation. It is often used to clarify the relationship between different quantities in the equation.

2) How is the math symbol "in terms of" used in equations?

The symbol "in terms of" is typically placed after a variable in an equation to indicate that this variable is the one being solved for or represented in the equation. For example, in the equation y = mx + b, the "in terms of" symbol could be used to write it as y = mx + b in terms of x.

3) Can the math symbol "in terms of" be used with multiple variables?

Yes, the "in terms of" symbol can be used with multiple variables in an equation. This is often seen in more complex equations where there are multiple variables that are being solved for or represented in the equation.

4) What is the difference between the math symbols "in terms of" and "as a function of"?

While both symbols are used to indicate a relationship between variables in an equation, "in terms of" is typically used to specify the variable being solved for or represented in the equation, while "as a function of" is used to show how one variable is dependent on another in the equation.

5) Are there any alternative symbols for "in terms of"?

Yes, there are alternative symbols that can be used in place of "in terms of" in equations, such as "with respect to" or "expressed in terms of." These symbols serve the same purpose of indicating which variable is being solved for or represented in the equation.

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