Lexic.us

Definition of Tractrix

1. n. A curve such that the part of the tangent between the point of tangency and a given straight line is constant; -- so called because it was conceived as described by the motion of one end of a tangent line as the other end was drawn along the given line.

Definition of Tractrix

1. Noun. The curve that satisfies the following property: That segment of the tangent line that lies between the point of tangency and a fixed line has length independent of the point of tangency chosen. ¹

¹ Source: wiktionary.com

Definition of Tractrix

1. a curve [n TRACTRICES]

Medical Definition of Tractrix

1. A curve such that the part of the tangent between the point of tangency and a given straight line is constant; so called because it was conceived as described by the motion of one end of a tangent line as the other end was drawn along the given line. (11 Mar 1998)

Lexicographical Neighbors of Tractrix

Literary usage of Tractrix

Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:

1. A Treatise on the Higher Plane Curves: Intended as a Sequel to A Treatise on by George Salmon (1879)
"Such a curve is called the tractrix. 317. The equation of the tractrix can be obtained without much difficulty. For the length between the foot of the ..."

2. Applied Calculus: Principles and Applications, Essentials for Students and by Robert Gibbes Thomas (1919)
"Ja y_ is the equation of the tractrix. Example 1. — To find the area bounded by the tractrix in the first quadrant, the x-axis, and the y-axis. ..."

3. Summarized Proceedings ... and a Directory of Members (1890)
"HARKNESS, Washington, DC [Tms paper consisted of a brief account of au investigation soon to be published by the US Naval Observatory.] . THE POLAR tractrix ..."

4. Summarized Proceedings ... and a Directory of Members (1890)
"This curve is a "polar tractrix " and Is the fundamental curve of the family of curves traced by all points (of which Q Is one) connected with the arm PQ. ..."

5. An Elementary Course of Infinitesimal Calculus by Horace Lamb (1897)
"Transcendental Curves; Catenary, tractrix. We proceed to the discussion of some important curves, mainly transcendental, which are most conveniently denned ..."

6. An Elementary Treatise on the Differential Calculus: With Applications and by Joseph Edwards (1892)
"... OR tractrix. 444. The chainette is the curve in which a uniform heavy string will hang under the action of gravity. Its Cartesian equation is proved in ..."

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