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Polar Arc Length

Definition

Polar arc length refers to the length of a curve in polar coordinates. It measures the distance along a curve from one point to another, taking into account both the angle and radius.

Analogy

Imagine you are walking on a circular track. The polar arc length is like measuring how far you have walked along the curved path, considering both the distance from the center (radius) and the angle at which you are walking.

Related terms

Polar Coordinates: A system that represents points in a plane using an angle and a distance from a fixed point (pole).

Parametric Equations: Equations that express variables x and y as functions of an independent variable (usually time), commonly used to describe curves.

Arc Length: The measure of the distance along a curve between two points.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.