What is the smallest radius needed for a line to intersect all circles with lattice point centers?

  • MHB
  • Thread starter Ackbach
  • Start date
In summary, the concept of "smallest radius" in this context refers to the minimum distance from the center of a line to the edge of a circle, in order to intersect with all circles with lattice point centers. Lattice point centers are points on a two-dimensional grid where the lines of the grid intersect, commonly used in mathematical and scientific calculations. The smallest radius can be calculated using various mathematical equations and formulas, taking into account the coordinates of the lattice point centers and the properties of circles. There are multiple methods for finding the smallest radius, depending on the parameters and conditions of the problem. Real-world applications of intersecting circles with a line at the smallest radius include architecture, engineering, and computer graphics. These methods are used to determine
  • #1
Ackbach
Gold Member
MHB
4,155
89
Here's this week's problem!

-----

A lattice point in the plane is a point with integer
coordinates. Suppose that circles with radius $r$ are drawn using all
lattice points as centers. Find the smallest value of $r$ such that any
line with slope $\tfrac25$ intersects some of these circles.

-----

Remember to read the http://www.mathhelpboards.com/showthread.php?772-Problem-of-the-Week-%28POTW%29-Procedure-and-Guidelines to find out how to http://www.mathhelpboards.com/forms.php?do=form&fid=2!
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Congratulations to Opalg for his correct solution! You can see it below.

If the plane is rotated through an angle $\theta = \arctan\bigl(-\frac25\bigr)$, then lines with slope $\frac25$ will be transformed to horizontal lines. Since $\cos\theta = \frac5{\sqrt{29}}$ and $\sin\theta = -\frac2{\sqrt{29}}$, the matrix for this rotation is \(\displaystyle \frac1{\sqrt{29}} \begin{bmatrix} 5&2 \\ -2&5 \end{bmatrix}\). This takes the lattice point $(p,q)$ to the point with $y$-coordinate $\frac1{\sqrt{29}}(5q-2p)$. So the $y$-coordinate of each rotated lattice point will be an integer multiple of $\frac1{\sqrt{29}}$, and every such multiple will occur. Thus the maximum vertical separation between two horizontal lines with no rotated lattice points between them is $\frac1{\sqrt{29}}$. It follows that the smallest value of $r$ to ensure that every horizontal line intersects some of the circles is \(\displaystyle r = \)\(\displaystyle \frac1{2\sqrt{29}}.\)
 

Related to What is the smallest radius needed for a line to intersect all circles with lattice point centers?

What is the concept of "smallest radius" in this context?

The concept of "smallest radius" refers to the minimum distance from the center of a line to the edge of a circle, such that the line intersects with all circles with lattice point centers.

What are lattice point centers?

Lattice point centers refer to the points on a two-dimensional grid where the lines of the grid intersect. These points are often used in mathematical and scientific calculations and are important in understanding the concept of intersecting circles with a line.

How is the smallest radius calculated for intersecting circles with lattice point centers?

The smallest radius can be calculated using mathematical equations and formulas, taking into account the coordinates of the lattice point centers and the properties of circles. This calculation helps determine the minimum distance needed for a line to intersect all circles with lattice point centers.

Is there a specific formula or method for finding the smallest radius?

Yes, there are multiple formulas and methods for finding the smallest radius. Some of the commonly used methods include using the Pythagorean theorem, trigonometric functions, and coordinate geometry. The specific formula or method used may depend on the parameters and conditions of the problem.

What are some real-world applications of intersecting circles with a line at the smallest radius?

Intersecting circles with a line at the smallest radius has various applications in fields such as architecture, engineering, and computer graphics. It can help determine the minimum distance needed for a structure or object to avoid obstacles or intersect with other objects. It is also used in designing and programming computer graphics for creating precise and accurate geometric shapes.

Similar threads

  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Math POTW for University Students
Replies
1
Views
1K
Back
Top