Nota: A tradução desta entrada está atualmente em revisão de qualidade, portanto parte do conteúdo é exibida temporariamente apenas em inglês.
Este verbete ainda não foi traduzido para o seu idioma, portanto o original é exibido abaixo.
secant
This term is primarily used in geometry and trigonometry to describe a specific type of intersection or ratio. In a geometric sense, it describes a line that penetrates a curve, creating a distinct contrast with a tangent line, which only touches the curve at a single point.
In trigonometric contexts, it functions as a reciprocal function. It is used almost exclusively in mathematical and technical discourse, carrying a neutral, precise connotation devoid of emotional or casual usage.
Meanings
Examples
Draw a secant through points A and B on the circle.
The secant of an angle is the reciprocal of its cosine.
I need to find the equation of the secant line for this curve.
The secant function has vertical asymptotes where the cosine is zero.
A secant segment is the part of the secant line that lies inside the circle.
The slope of the secant line represents the average rate of change.
We are studying secant and tangent properties in geometry class today.