POLAR ANGLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "polar angle" refers to a geometric concept used in mathematics and physics to describe the position of a point in relation to a fixed reference point in a polar coordinate system. In this system, a point's position is determined by two numerical values: the radial distance from the reference point, and the angle measured from a fixed reference direction.
More specifically, the polar angle, also known as the azimuthal angle or the angular coordinate, represents the angle formed between the reference direction and the line segment connecting the reference point and the given point. This angle is typically measured in a counterclockwise direction, starting from the reference direction.
The polar angle varies in value from 0 to 2π radians (or 0° to 360°), forming a complete circle around the reference point. The angle can be positive or negative, depending on the direction of rotation. A positive polar angle indicates a counterclockwise rotation, while a negative angle represents a clockwise rotation.
The polar angle is employed in various fields such as physics, astronomy, and engineering, as it provides an alternative way to represent points and vectors in a two-dimensional space. This representation is particularly useful when dealing with circular or rotational motion, or when working with coordinates that have angular symmetry. By utilizing polar coordinates, complex problems can be simplified, allowing for more efficient analysis and calculations.
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On the terrestrial sphere, the angle at the pole formed by two meridians; on the celestial sphere, the angle at the pole formed by two hour-circles.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for POLAR ANGLE
- oolar angle
- lolar angle
- -olar angle
- 0olar angle
- pilar angle
- pklar angle
- pllar angle
- pplar angle
- p0lar angle
- p9lar angle
- pokar angle
- popar angle
- pooar angle
- polzr angle
- polsr angle
- polwr angle
- polqr angle
- polae angle
- polad angle
- polaf angle
Etymology of POLAR ANGLE
The term "polar angle" has its origins in mathematics and physics.
The word "polar" comes from the Latin word "polaris", which means "of or near the pole". It is derived from the Latin noun "polus", which refers to the pole of the Earth or celestial bodies. In mathematics, the term "polar" is used to describe a coordinate system that uses a reference point (usually the origin) and a reference direction (represented by a ray called the polar axis) to locate points in a plane.
The word "angle" comes from the Latin word "angulus", which means "corner" or "angle". It also has roots in the Greek word "ankylos", meaning "bent" or "hooked". In mathematics and physics, an angle is the figure formed by two rays (or lines) that share a common endpoint, known as the vertex.
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