Approximately Equal To or the Image Of

The Mathematical Symbol "Approximately Equal To or the Image Of (≒)"

The ≒ Symbol in Mathematics: Delving into its Meanings

The mathematical symbol ≒ is versatile and can signify two distinct concepts: "Approximately Equal To" or "the Image Of". Its usage depends on the context. This article will highlight both these interpretations, offering two illustrative examples for each.

1. Approximately Equal To

This interpretation is common when comparing two quantities that are nearly, but not precisely, equal.

• Example 1: Suppose a calculation for π results in 3.14159. We can express this approximation as \(π ≒ 3.14159\).
• Example 2: In experimental physics, if a measurement for the gravitational constant \(G\) yields a value of 6.67429 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2, one might write: \(G ≒ 6.67430 x 10^-11 m^3 kg^-1 s^-2\), rounding it for simplification.

2. The Image Of

In mathematics, especially in set theory and mappings, the symbol denotes the image of an element under a specific function or transformation.

• Example 1: Given a function \(f\) and an element \(x\) in its domain, if \(f(x) = y\), it can be represented as \(x ≒ y\).
• Example 2: In a transformation \(T\) mapping a point \(P\) to a point \(P'\), this relationship can be expressed as \(P ≒ P'\).

In summary, the symbol ≒ is multifaceted, symbolizing different mathematical concepts based on its contextual application. Distinguishing between its meanings is crucial for accurate comprehension and communication.

Are You Good at Mathematical Symbols?

Do you know, or can you guess, the technical symbols? Well, let's see! Show Instructions

Codes for the ≒ Symbol

The Symbol	≒	copy
Alt Code	Alt 8786	copy
HTML Code	≒	copy
HTML Entity	≒	copy
CSS Code	\2252	copy
Hex Code	≒	copy
Unicode	U+2252	copy

How To Insert the ≒ Symbol

(Method 1) Copy and paste the symbol.

The easiest way to get the ≒ symbol is to copy and paste it into your document.

Bear in mind that this is a UTF-8 encoded character. It must be encoded as UTF-8 at all stages (copying, replacing, editing, pasting), otherwise it will render as random characters or the dreaded �.

(Method 2) Use the "Alt Code."

If you have a keyboard with a numeric pad, you can use this method. Simply hold down the Alt key and type 8786. When you lift the Alt key, the symbol appears. ("Num Lock" must be on.)

(Method 3) Use the HTML Decimal Code (for webpages).

HTML Text	Output
<b>My symbol: &#8786;</b>	My symbol: ≒

(Method 4) Use the HTML Entity Code (for webpages).

HTML Text	Output
<b>My symbol: &efDot;</b>	My symbol: ≒

(Method 5) Use the CSS Code (for webpages).

CSS and HTML Text	Output
<style> span:after { content: "\2252";} </style> <span>My symbol:</span>	My symbol: ≒

(Method 6) Use the HTML Hex Code (for webpages and HTML canvas).

HTML Text	Output
<b>My symbol: &#x2252;</b>	My symbol: ≒

On the assumption that you already have your canvas and the context set up, use the Hex code in the format 0x2252 to place the ≒ symbol on your canvas. For example:

JavaScript Text
const x = "0x"+"E9" ctx.fillText(String.fromCodePoint(x), 5, 5);
Output
≒

(Method 7) Use the Unicode (for various, e.g. Microsoft Office, JavaScript, Perl).

The Unicode for ≒ is U+2252. The important part is the hexadecimal number after the U+, which is used in various formats. For example, in Microsoft Office applications (e.g. Word, PowerPoint), do the following:

Type	Output
2252 [Hold down Alt] [Press x]	≒ (The 2252 turns into ≒. Note that you can omit any leading zeros.)

In JavaScript, the syntax is \uXXXX. So, our example would be \u2252. (Note that the format is 4 hexadecimal characters.)

JavaScript Text	Output
let str = "\u2252" document.write("My symbol: " + str)	My symbol: ≒

You might also like...