Name or Label for the outermost point of a rotating object

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a specific term or label for the outermost point of a rotating object. Participants explore various concepts related to rotation and geometry, considering both technical and informal terminology.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether "Pivot" accurately describes the rotational axis and seeks a term for the outermost point of rotation.
  • Another participant suggests that for a perfectly round object, the outermost point could be referred to as the "sphere," but acknowledges the lack of a term for irregular shapes.
  • A third participant introduces the terms "perihelion" and "aphelion" in the context of planetary orbits, suggesting a potential analogy for other rotating objects.
  • A later reply proposes "Maximum Diameter" or "Maximum Radius" as informal terms that could convey the idea of the outermost point in certain contexts.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on a specific term for the outermost point of a rotating object, and multiple competing views and suggestions remain present in the discussion.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions and contexts in which the proposed terms might apply, particularly for irregular shapes and different types of rotation.

Blizzardchris
Hey all, I can't seem to find the answer anywhere, I'm not sure if I'm asking the right question though, if the name or label "Pivot" describes the rotational axis of an object is there a term or label used to describe the outer most point of the rotation?
 
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I see no one answered your question. I’m new to PF but think when there are no answers to a question that means the question is not worthy or is too difficult. For me, I think your question is worthy and too difficult but that never stopped me from answering as long as I admit up front that it is wobbly and for entertainment only. I am a retired engineer who early on found I was better at managing engineers than doing engineering so they made me the pointy haired boss. But I love science and especially physics.
If the object is a perfectly round then the outermost point is located everywhere on the surface and is called the “sphere” (as well as everything inside). For irregular shapes like a five sided polygon—I couldn’t find an answer. It may well be called, “The outermost point”. Really though, it should have a more techy name than that.
 
How about "Maximum Diameter"; or perhaps "Maximum Radius"?

Not 'official', but they seem to get the idea across for some situations.

Cheers,
Tom
 

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