CENTRAL ANGLE Meaning and
Definition
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A central angle is a geometrical term used to describe an angle that is formed by two radii originating from the center of a circle and intersecting at the circumference of the circle. In other words, it is an angle created by two lines extending from the center of a circle to any two points on its circumference. The vertex of the central angle is located at the center of the circle.
One key characteristic of a central angle is that it always measures less than or equal to 360 degrees, as the angle cannot exceed a full revolution around the circle. The total measure of a central angle is directly proportional to the length of the corresponding intercepted arc on the circumference of the circle.
Central angles play a crucial role in many geometrical calculations and properties associated with circles. They are widely applicable in fields such as engineering, architecture, and design, where circular objects or patterns are analyzed and manipulated. By understanding central angles, one can measure and determine various aspects of circles such as arc lengths, sector areas, and the relationships between angles formed by intersecting chords, tangents, or secants.
Overall, a central angle is a fundamental concept in geometry that relates to the geometric properties of circles, providing insights into the measurements and relationships between various angles within a circle.
Etymology of CENTRAL ANGLE
The word "central" comes from the Latin word "centralis", which means "pertaining to a center". It is derived from the Latin word "centrum", meaning "center". The word "angle" is derived from the Latin word "angulus", which means "corner" or "angle". Therefore, the term "central angle" refers to an angle whose vertex is located at the center of a circle.
