Find s, the arc length of a circle

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the arc length of a circle, specifically how to convert an angle in radians to a decimal approximation for the arc length. The context includes mathematical reasoning and the use of calculators for conversion.

Discussion Character

  • Mathematical reasoning, Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents the problem of finding the arc length s with given parameters: an angle of \( \frac{4\pi}{5} \) radians and a radius of 3 meters.
  • Another participant notes that the result should be in meters since the radius is given in meters, and suggests using a calculator for decimal approximation.
  • A participant inquires about how to use the calculator for conversion, specifically asking about the functionality of their calculator.
  • One participant provides a decimal approximation of \( \frac{12\pi}{5} \) as approximately 7.5398.
  • Another participant humorously acknowledges the previous calculation by referring to the first participant as their own calculator.
  • A participant identifies an error in their calculations, stating they were incorrectly using 180 for pi.
  • This participant also provides the unit conversion equation relating degrees to radians.
  • One participant expresses gratitude to others for their assistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the method of using a calculator for conversion, but there is no consensus on the initial calculation process, as one participant identified an error in their approach.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include potential misunderstandings regarding the use of radians and degrees, as well as the specific functionalities of different calculators which may affect the conversion process.

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
 

Attachments

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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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