Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
tangential point
Noun
/tænˈdʒɛnʃəl pɔɪnt/
Definition
A tangential point refers to a point that touches a curve or surface at exactly one location without crossing it.
Examples
- The tangential point on the circle is where the line meets it but does not go through.
- In calculus, understanding tangential points is essential for analyzing curves.
- The tangent to the ellipse at a tangential point shows the slope of the ellipse at that location.
Meaning
In mathematics and geometry, a tangential point is where a tangent line or plane intersects a curve or surface.
Synonyms
- Tangent
- Contact point
- Touching point
