What is the Purpose of tg() in Physics?

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In summary, the conversation discusses the meaning and use of the tg function, which is commonly known as the tangent function. The speakers mention that it is often used in older books and is sometimes abbreviated as lg().
  • #1
penguindecay
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Dear Physicists,

I've been given an equation tg(psi_1) = et cetera. I do not know the meaning of the tg function, please could could one tell me its formal name, or how it functions? Thank you
 
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  • #2
It's a fairly common abbreviation for the tangent function, at least in older books.
 
  • #3
arildno said:
It's a fairly common abbreviation for the tangent function, at least in older books.

Thank you! It's the first time in fours years of higher education that I've seen it!
 
  • #4
penguindecay said:
Thank you! It's the first time in fours years of higher education that I've seen it!

You're welcome! :smile:

And, to make a pre-emptive strike, lg() is an old convention for the (Briggs') logarithm..:wink:
 

FAQ: What is the Purpose of tg() in Physics?

What is the meaning of tg( )?

The function tg( ) refers to the tangent of an angle in trigonometry. It is calculated by dividing the length of the opposite side of a right triangle by the length of the adjacent side.

What is the purpose of using tg( )?

Tangent is used in trigonometry to calculate the ratio between the sides of a right triangle. It is also used in various fields of science and engineering, such as physics and navigation, to solve problems involving angles and distances.

How is tg( ) different from sin( ) and cos( )?

Tangent, sine, and cosine are all trigonometric functions, but they have different calculations and uses. Tangent is the ratio of the opposite side to the adjacent side, while sine is the ratio of the opposite side to the hypotenuse, and cosine is the ratio of the adjacent side to the hypotenuse.

Can tg( ) be negative?

Yes, tg( ) can be negative. The positive or negative value of tangent depends on the quadrant in which the angle is located. In the first and third quadrants, tangent is positive, while in the second and fourth quadrants, it is negative.

What are some real-life applications of tg( )?

Tangent is used in various fields such as engineering, physics, and astronomy. It is used in navigation to determine the angle of elevation or depression of an object, in surveying to calculate the height of a building or distance between two points, and in physics to calculate the force or torque acting on an object at an angle.

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