Princeton Review

Display Title

Definition--Circle Concepts--Arc Length

Arc Length

Arc Length Image

Topic

Circles

Definition

An arc length is the distance along the curved line making up the arc.

Description

The arc length is a crucial concept in geometry, particularly when dealing with circles. It is calculated using the formula 

L = rθ

where L is the arc length, r is the radius of the circle, and θ is the central angle in radians. Understanding arc length is essential for real-world applications such as engineering and architecture, where precise measurements are necessary for constructing curved structures. In math education, learning about arc length helps students grasp the broader concept of measuring curves, which is foundational for calculus and other advanced mathematical studies.

Arc Length
To calculate the speed of the satellite, find the 
ratio of arc length traveled over a given time.

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