Proving Circle Has Smallest Perimeter for Same Area

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the theorem that a circle has the smallest perimeter among all geometric shapes with the same area. The proof utilizes calculus of variations to demonstrate that, assuming the perimeter is a smooth curve, the circle minimizes the perimeter for a given area. While the original poster expresses uncertainty about the existence of a proof for all types of perimeters, the established fact remains that the circle is optimal in this context.

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  • Understanding of calculus of variations
  • Familiarity with geometric shapes and their properties
  • Knowledge of perimeter and area concepts
  • Basic principles of mathematical proofs
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  • Research the calculus of variations and its applications in optimization problems
  • Study geometric properties of shapes and their perimeters
  • Explore mathematical proofs related to optimization in geometry
  • Investigate alternative proofs for the perimeter-area relationship in different geometric contexts
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Mathematicians, physics students, and anyone interested in optimization problems in geometry will benefit from this discussion.

pixel01
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Hi everybody,

In physics and mathematics, we often use the theorem that the circle alway has the smallest perimeter compared to all other geometric shapes of the same area. Anyone can tell me how to prove that?
Thanks for reading.
 
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Well, assuming the perimeter is a smooth curve, you can show with calculus of variations that the circle minimizes the perimeter for a given area.

I haven't seen the proof valid for ALL perimeters, but I'm sure it exists somewhere. :smile:
 

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