The word "dihedral" is pronounced /daɪˈhiːdrəl/. The first syllable "di-" is pronounced /daɪ/, rhyming with "pie". The second syllable "-he-" is pronounced /hiː/, rhyming with "bee". The final syllable "-dral" is pronounced /drəl/, with the "d" and "r" pronounced together like the "dr" in "drive", and rhyming with "grapple". This word is often used in reference to the angle between two flat surfaces like airplane wings, and is important in aviation and geometry.
Dihedral is a term used to describe the angle between two intersecting planes or lines. It is commonly used in geometry and aviation to denote the angle formed between two wings or surfaces. The term is derived from the Greek words "di-" meaning two, and "hedral" meaning seat or base.
In geometry, dihedral refers to the angle formed by two intersecting planes. It is calculated as the angle between their normal vectors, which are perpendicular to the planes. Dihedral angles can be acute, obtuse, or right, depending on the relative orientation of the planes. They are used in various contexts, such as measuring the orientation of crystal planes or determining the stability of molecules.
In aviation, dihedral is the upward angle formed between the wings of an aircraft when viewed from the front or back. This design feature affects the stability and handling characteristics of the aircraft. Positive dihedral angles contribute to roll stability by promoting self-leveling tendencies, while negative or zero dihedral angles can result in reduced stability and potentially adverse handling qualities.
Dihedral can also refer to the angle between two intersecting lines. For example, in mathematics, the dihedral angle can be measured between two lines in a three-dimensional space. It is used in various fields, such as computer graphics, robotics, and engineering.
Overall, the term "dihedral" encompasses the concept of angles formed between intersecting planes or lines, with applications ranging from geometry to aviation and beyond.
Having two sides or surfaces.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "dihedral" originated from two Greek roots: "di" meaning "two" and "hedra" meaning "base" or "seat". In geometry, a dihedral angle refers to the angle formed between two planes. The prefix "di-" signifies that there are two planes involved in the angle. Therefore, "dihedral" conveys the concept of something being associated with or related to two planes or flat surfaces, particularly in the context of angles.