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algebraic function

mathematics
Also known as: algebraic expression

Quick Summary

An algebraic function is a function defined by an algebraic equation. In mathematics, a function establishes a relationship between a dependent variable and one or more independent variables. This relationship is expressed through a rule or formula.12

Algebraic functions are a subset of these functions where the relationship can be described by an algebraic equation. This means the variables in the function are related through operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and raising to a power. For example, the area of a circle, (A = \pi r^2), is a polynomial function, which is a type of algebraic function. In contrast, transcendental functions, like exponential or trigonometric functions, cannot be expressed solely through algebraic equations.123

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