Function

(füngk'shün.) [From L. functio, an accomplishing.] (Algeb.) Any mathematical expre ion, considered with reference to its form, and not to the value which it receives, by giving particular values to the symbols contained in it. Thus, a + z, and a2 + 22, are F. of z, though of different for is. In whatever way a P. maybe compounded of constant and variable quantities, it is a F. of the variable quantities only. The calculus of F. may be considered as standing in the same relation to algebra that algebra does to arithme tic. In the calculus of F., the generalization is carried still further than in algebra. (Physiol.) There are 2 cla es of functions by which life is manifested in animals. 1. Those of animal life being functions of relation, including sensation and voluntary motion; 2. Those of vegetative life, or functions of nutrition and reproduction. The functions of the first cla bring us into relation with the world around us; those of the second are nece ary to the support of life and the perpetuation of the species. [s. 389]