Math Is Fun Forum

Reuel

Member

Registered: 2010-11-28

Posts: 178

Terminology

Hi there. I haven't been here in a while.

Is there a proper name for the interior part of a trigonometric function or is it simply called the inner function, or something to that effect? I have looked around online for an answer but I can't seem to find anything.

For example, the function

does g(x) have a proper term or name? Or is it just "the inner function"?

Thank you very much.

anonimnystefy

Real Member

From: Harlan's World

Registered: 2011-05-23

Posts: 16,049

Re: Terminology

You could say g(x) is the argument of the tangent function, but I don't think there is a proper name for such a function g(x).

---

“Here lies the reader who will never open this book. He is forever dead.
“Taking a new step, uttering a new word, is what people fear most.” ― Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Crime and Punishment
The knowledge of some things as a function of age is a delta function.

Reuel

Member

Registered: 2010-11-28

Posts: 178

Re: Terminology

Thank you, anonimnystefy. I am writing a paper and just wanted to use the correct word, if one existed.

anonimnystefy

Real Member

From: Harlan's World

Registered: 2011-05-23

Posts: 16,049

Re: Terminology

You can just use the word argument, then.

You're welcome.

---

“Here lies the reader who will never open this book. He is forever dead.
“Taking a new step, uttering a new word, is what people fear most.” ― Fyodor Dostoyevsky, Crime and Punishment
The knowledge of some things as a function of age is a delta function.

bobbym

bumpkin

From: Bumpkinland

Registered: 2009-04-12

Posts: 109,606

Re: Terminology

Hi;

Since this can be thought of as function composition you will sometimes see it called the inside function or first function.

---

In mathematics, you don't understand things. You just get used to them.
If it ain't broke, fix it until it is.
Always satisfy the Prime Directive of getting the right answer above all else.