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Definition--Circle Concepts--Circular Arc

Circular Arc

Circular Arc Image

Topic

Circles

Definition

A circular arc is a portion of the circumference of a circle.

Description

Circular arcs are segments of a circle's circumference, used extensively in design, architecture, and engineering to create curved structures and paths. The length of an arc is determined by the central angle and the circle's radius, calculated using the formula 

L = rθ

where θ is in radians. Understanding circular arcs is crucial in math education as it introduces students to the concept of radians and angular measurement, which are foundational for trigonometry and calculus. Exploring circular arcs helps students develop spatial awareness and problem-solving skills, which are essential for advanced mathematical studies and practical applications.

Circular Arc
What are the circular arcs that make up this traffic circle?

For a complete collection of terms related to Circles click on this link: Circles Collection.

Common Core Standards CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.C.A.2, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.C.A.1, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.C.A.3, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.C.A.4, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.4.MD.C.5.A, CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.7.G.B.4
Grade Range 4 - 8
Curriculum Nodes Geometry
    • Circles
        • Definition of a Circle
Copyright Year 2014
Keywords defnitions, geometry, circle