Measurements of angles in circular method

In summary, the conversation discusses the definition and justification for using radians as a unit of measurement for angles. The concept of defining one radian as the angle subtended by a sector of a circle with an arc length equal to the radius is mentioned. The idea that this definition makes mathematical formulas simpler is also brought up, along with its connection to angular and tangential velocity. The conversation also suggests that the definition of radians has a connection to calculus and trigonometric functions.
  • #1
parshyaa
307
19
  • Why θ in radian equals arc/radius?
I know that it can't be proved but there must be a explanation for this formula. How founder may have got this idea.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
parshyaa said:
  • Why θ in radian equals arc/radius?
I know that it can't be proved but there must be a explanation for this formula. How founder may have got this idea.
It's a definition. Definitions aren't proved.
One radian is the angle subtended by a sector of a circle for which the arc length of the sector is equal to the radius of the circle.
 
  • #3
Mark44 said:
It's a definition. Definitions aren't proved.
One radian is the angle subtended by a sector of a circle for which the arc length of the sector is equal to the radius of the circle.
OK, 2πr/1 = 360°, can we say that here arc = 2πr and radius =1 , therefore we get 2π = 360° , this may be the reason which made founder to make it as a definition , this is just my thinking
 
  • #4
parshyaa said:
OK, 2πr/1 = 360°, can we say that here arc = 2πr and radius =1 , therefore we get 2π = 360° , this may be the reason which made founder to make it as a definition , this is just my thinking

A major motivation for defining "radian" (in the standard way) is that it makes many mathematical formulas simple. If "radian" were defined differently, then many formulas that effectively have the constant factor of "1" in them would have to be rewritten with a different constant factor.

Are you familiar with the definitions of "angular velocity" and "tangential velocity" as applied to an object moving in a circle ? The definition of "radian" creates a simple relation between them.

If you have studied calculus, you can understand that the definition of "radian" creates a simple relation between trigonometric functions (like sin(x)) and their derivatives.
 

Related to Measurements of angles in circular method

1. What is the circular method for measuring angles?

The circular method is a technique used to measure angles in a circular or curved object. It involves using a protractor to measure the angle at the center of the circle or arc, and then multiplying that angle by the number of times the circle or arc fits into the full 360 degrees.

2. How accurate is the circular method for measuring angles?

The accuracy of the circular method depends on the precision of the protractor used and the skill of the person taking the measurement. However, with a high-quality protractor and careful measurement techniques, the circular method can provide accurate results.

3. Can the circular method be used to measure any type of angle?

Yes, the circular method can be used to measure any type of angle, including acute, obtuse, and reflex angles. It is especially useful for measuring angles in curved objects, such as circles, arcs, and segments.

4. What are some common applications of the circular method in scientific research?

The circular method is commonly used in various fields of science, such as astronomy, physics, and engineering. It can be used to measure the angles of celestial bodies, determine the direction and magnitude of forces, and design curved structures.

5. Are there any limitations to using the circular method for measuring angles?

One limitation of the circular method is that it is not suitable for measuring angles in non-circular or non-curved objects. Additionally, it may be challenging to use for very small or very large angles, as the measurement may not be precise enough.

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
2K
Replies
11
Views
6K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • General Math
Replies
4
Views
950
Replies
7
Views
1K
Back
Top