Given a tuple e=(x,y), how do I reference the 2nd item (y)?
Mathematical symbol to reference the i-th item in a tuple?
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$\begingroup$
notation
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1Sometimes $p_2(e)$ is used to denote the 2nd projection. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Projection_%28mathematics%29 – 2011-04-09
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3Or just $e_2$ . – 2011-04-09
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3But, when you want to use one of these, explain it! You cannot assume the reader knows it already. – 2011-04-09
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1I have seen $\pi_2\left(e\right)$, too. – 2011-04-09
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1Sometimes also $e^{(2)}$ and even $e^2$. – 2011-04-11
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1This does not directly answer your question, but as a more general remark: I find it quite handy to describe an $n$-tuple as $\mathbf{x}\in\mathbb{R}^n$ (note the bold font). Then the $i$th element can easily addressed with $x_i$. – 2012-02-06
1 Answers
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I figured I would collect a number of the comments together into an answer so you would have something to accept (citing, so no one would hate on me for an plagiarism).
As with many types of mathematical notations, there are a number of possible variations here.
- Sometimes $p_2(e)$ or $\pi_2(e)$ is used to denote the 2nd projection (Martin Sleziak, FrancescoTurco).
- If you define an n-tuple as $\mathbf{x}\in\mathbb{R}^n$ (note the bold font), then the $i$th element can easily addressed with $x_i$ (Hauke Strasdat).
- Sometimes even $e^{(2)}$ or $e^2$ (lhf).
Just be sure you explain to the reader what you mean by the notation—don't assume he will understand (GEdgar).