Why is the area of a cross section not pi * r^2 for a rod?

In summary, the area of a cross section refers to the two-dimensional measurement of the shape created when a three-dimensional object is cut by a plane. It can be calculated by finding the product of the length and width of the cross section or using geometric formulas. The area of a cross section is important in understanding the size and shape of objects, and is related to the volume of a three-dimensional object. Real-world examples include tree trunks, building floor plans, and medical research on human brains.
  • #1
ktpr2
192
0
I'm going through my intro to mechanical engineering material and there was one thing I was never clear on:

If you have a cross section of a rod, why isn't its' area at a cross section [tex]pi * r^2[/tex] as a opposed to [tex]piD^2/4[/tex], where D is the diameter?
 
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  • #2
Becasue people are actually measuring the diameter...?

Daniel.
 
  • #3
whoops. That makes sense :D
 

What is the definition of "area of a cross section"?

The area of a cross section refers to the two-dimensional measurement of the shape that is created when a three-dimensional object is cut by a plane.

How is the area of a cross section calculated?

The area of a cross section can be calculated by finding the product of the length and width of the cross section. For more complex shapes, the area can be calculated by using geometric formulas such as the area of a circle or triangle.

Why is the area of a cross section important?

The area of a cross section is important because it allows us to understand the shape and size of three-dimensional objects in a two-dimensional context. It is also a crucial concept in many fields of science and engineering, such as architecture, physics, and geology.

How does the area of a cross section relate to volume?

The area of a cross section is directly related to the volume of a three-dimensional object. By multiplying the area of a cross section by the length or height of the object, we can determine the volume of the object.

What are some real-world examples of the area of a cross section?

The area of a cross section can be seen in many everyday objects and structures, such as the cross section of a tree trunk, the cross section of a building's floor plan, or the cross section of a pipe. It is also used in more complex applications, such as calculating the area of a cross section of a human brain for medical research.

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