In mathematics and related technical fields, the term map or mapping is often a synonym for function. Thus, for example, a partial map is a partial function, and a total map is a total function. Related terms like domain, codomain, injective, continuous, etc. can be applied equally to maps and functions, with the same meaning.
In many branches of mathematics, the term denotes a function with a property specific to that branch, such as a continuous function in topology, a linear map in linear algebra, etc.
Sets of maps with special properties are the subjects of many important theories: see for instance Lie group, mapping class group, permutation group.
In formal logic, the term is sometimes used for a functional predicate, whereas a function is a model of such a predicate in set theory.
In graph theory, a map is a drawing of a graph on a surface without intersecting edges.
In the theory of dynamical systems, a map denotes an evolution function used to create discrete dynamical systems. See also Poincaré map.
See also
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