Can I use the circle circumference formula for a sphere?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the application of the circumference formula for a sphere, specifically in relation to calculating the circumference from a given radius. Participants explore whether the same formula used for circles can be applied to spheres and seek clarification on the definition of circumference in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether the circumference formula for a circle can be used for a sphere, providing a specific radius and calculated circumference.
  • Another participant confirms that the circumference of a sphere is indeed that of a great circle, which is the maximum circumference of the sphere.
  • A request for a definition of the circumference of a sphere is made, indicating a need for further clarification on the concept.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

While there is agreement on the definition of the circumference of a sphere as that of a great circle, the initial question regarding the application of the formula remains somewhat contested, as the context of the inquiry suggests uncertainty.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the initial participant's uncertainty about the correctness of their calculated circumference, nor does it clarify any potential limitations in the application of the formula.

Perchaddition
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Trying to calculate a circumference of a sphere from a radius of 3.09 inches. Is 19.4 a correct answer? Just ran numbers in the first circumference calculator I found http://calcurator.org/circumference-calculator/. Can I use the same formula for a sphere? What can I say ...Geometry is not my passion
 
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Perchaddition said:
Trying to calculate a circumference of a sphere from a radius of 3.09 inches. Is 19.4 a correct answer?
Yes.
Perchaddition said:
Just ran numbers in the first circumference calculator I found http://calcurator.org/circumference-calculator/. Can I use the same formula for a sphere? What can I say ...Geometry is not my passion
The circumference is always that of a circle. In the case of a sphere, it is the circumference of a great circle, circles of maximal circumference.
 
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Define circumference of a sphere.
 
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fresh_42 said:
Yes.

The circumference is always that of a circle. In the case of a sphere, it is the circumference of a great circle, circles of maximal circumference.
Thank you. Appreciate your explanation.
 

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