01 n. A tangent line curve, or surface; specifically, that portion of the straight line tangent to a curve that is between the point of tangency …
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A tangent line curve, or surface; specifically, that portion of the straight line tangent to a curve that is between the point of tangency and a given line, the given line being, for example, the axis of abscissas, or a radius of a circle produced. See Trigonometrical function, under Function.(Geom.) See: Function
Phrases & compounds
Artificial tangent —
the logarithm of the natural tangent of an arc.
Natural tangent —
a decimal expressing the length of the tangent of an arc, the radius being reckoned unity.
Tangent galvanometer —
a form of galvanometer having a circular coil and a short needle, in which the tangent of the angle of deflection of the needle is proportional to the strength of the current.
Tangent of an angle —
the natural tangent of the arc subtending or measuring the angle.
Tangent of an arc —
a right line, as ta, touching the arc of a circle at one extremity a, and terminated by a line ct, passing from the center through the other extremity o.