Radian Measure: Show Cone Surface Area is $\pi rl$

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on deriving the formula for the curved surface area of a cone, specifically demonstrating that the area is given by $\pi rl$. It begins by establishing the relationship between the slant height $l$, the angle $\theta$, and the base radius $r$ through the equation $l\theta = 2\pi r$. By calculating the area of the resulting sector formed when the cone's curved surface is flattened, the conclusion is reached that the curved surface area equals $\pi rl$. This derivation is essential for understanding geometric properties of cones.

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  • Familiarity with the relationship between arc length and circumference.
  • Knowledge of trigonometric functions related to angles in circles.
  • Ability to perform area calculations for circular sectors.
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  • Study the derivation of the surface area formulas for different geometric shapes.
  • Learn about the properties of conic sections and their applications in real-world scenarios.
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  • Investigate the use of calculus in deriving surface areas and volumes of solids of revolution.
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Sherlock16
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A cone with base radius $r$, vertical height $h$ and slant height $l$ has its curved surface slit and flattened out into a sector with radius $l$ and angle $\theta$. By comparing the arc length of this sector with the circumference of the base of the cone, show that $l\theta = 2\pi r$, and deduce by calculating the area of the sector, that the curved surface area of the cone is $\pi rl$.
 
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