Find s, the arc length of a circle

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the arc length (s) of a circle given a radius of 3 meters and an angle of 4π/5 radians. The correct formula for arc length is s = rθ, which results in approximately 7.54 meters when calculated correctly. A common error identified was the incorrect use of 180 for π in the calculations. Participants emphasized the importance of using a calculator that can convert radians to decimal form accurately.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of arc length formula: s = rθ
  • Knowledge of radians and their relationship to degrees
  • Familiarity with using scientific calculators for trigonometric functions
  • Basic geometry concepts related to circles
NEXT STEPS
  • Learn how to use a scientific calculator for trigonometric conversions
  • Study the relationship between radians and degrees in depth
  • Explore the derivation and applications of the arc length formula
  • Investigate common errors in angle conversions and how to avoid them
USEFUL FOR

Students studying geometry, mathematics educators, and anyone needing to calculate arc lengths in practical applications.

mathdad
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The question is asking me to find s, the arc length of a circle.
How do I convert my answer in radians to the book's answer 7.54 meters?

Theta = 4pi/5

radius = 3 meters

See picture.

View attachment 7876
 

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Your result is already using radians (which are dimensionless) for the angle subtended, but your result will be a length, in meters because the given radius is in meters.. Just use your calculator to convert your result to a decimal approximation.
 
This is what I meant. How can I use the calculator to convert?
 
RTCNTC said:
This is what I meant. How can I use the calculator to convert?

What sort of calculator do you have? Can you type in $12 \pi /5$? Usually there is a little $\lhd \rhd$ symbol which will convert to decimal form.
 
$12\pi/5\approx7.5398$
 
greg1313 said:
$12\pi/5\approx7.5398$

See greg1313 is his own calculator :p
 
I found my error out. I was using 180 for pi.
 
RTCNTC said:
I found my error out. I was using 180 for pi.

$180^{\circ}=\pi\,\text{rad}.$ That's your unit conversion equation.
 
Thank you everyone.
 

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