What is Arc in Math?

From the perspective mathematics, an Arc is a smooth curve connecting two distinct points at a certain distance. This curve can be a fragment of a circle, ellipse, or even a hyperbola. In specific cases, it is denoted as a segment of a circle, termed a circular arc. If we extend the ends of an arc, it will form a perfect circle.

Arc is also referred to as an ‘open curve.’ The circle’s perimeter, known as the circumference, defines the boundary. Thus, an arc measures the distance between two traced points along its circumference. For two arcs to be alike, their central angles must be equal.

Definition of Arc

An Arc is the part of a circle’s circumference that lies between two radii.

Arc represents a section of a curve, typically a circle, within a two-dimensional plane. Specifically, if the curve is a circle, we refer to it as a circular arc. In the strictest definition, an Arc is a segment of a curve located on a plane.

Symbol of Arc

The arc in geometry is typically represented by symbols ⌒ or ⌢ and is denoted as ‘arc AB,’ pronounced as such. Hence, ‘arc AB’ can be expressed as AB or equivalently as BA. The sequence of the points does not affect its order.

What is Arc of a Circle?

Arc is a segment of the circumference of a circle or any curved shape. An Arc in geometry is any smooth curve connecting two specific points. Arc is a smooth curve linking these endpoints. The length of an Arc is known as its Arc length. In Mathematics, it commonly refers to a portion of a circle, but it can also be parts of other shapes such as spheres, ellipses, and cylinders.

In this article, we will discuss the introduction, definition, types, and application of an Arc and its meaning. We will also understand measures and formulae to calculate the Arc Length and Arc Angle in mathematics. We will also solve various examples and provide practice questions for a better understanding of the concept of this article.

Table of Content

  • What is Arc in Math?
  • Arc of a Circle
  • Types of Arcs
  • Angle of Arc
  • Measures of an Arc
  • Arc Formula

Similar Reads

What is Arc in Math?

From the perspective mathematics, an Arc is a smooth curve connecting two distinct points at a certain distance. This curve can be a fragment of a circle, ellipse, or even a hyperbola. In specific cases, it is denoted as a segment of a circle, termed a circular arc. If we extend the ends of an arc, it will form a perfect circle....

Arc of a Circle

A Circle is defined as the set of all points in a two-dimensional plane that maintains a constant distance from a fixed point in the same plane, known as the Center. This fixed distance between any point on the circle’s perimeter and the center is referred to as the radius. An Arc of a Circle represents a segment of its circumference....

Types of Arcs

An Arc in a circle divides the circle into two distinct parts: a shorter segment known as the Minor Arc and a longer segment known as the Major Arc....

Applications of an Arc

Arc has important role in construction and other designs. Let’s see some of the applications of Arc shape...

Central Angle or Angle of Arc

The Central Angle or Angle of the Arc is simply the angle that is formed at the center of the circle by the two radii that connect to the endpoints of the arc. A central angle is nothing but the angle that is subtended by the Major or Minor Arc at the center of any circle....

How to Make an Arc?

To form an Arc, you have two options: Use chord and a definite central angle....

Measures of an Arc

There are two methods to measure an arc:...

Arc Formula

In the preceding sections, we discussed the definition of an Arc and its categorization into Major and Minor Arcs. Now, let’s see various formulas associated with Arcs....

Summary

All the formulas discussed in the article are summarized in the following table:...

Solved Examples on Arc

Example 1: Find the length of the Arc if the radius of the circle is equal to 4cm and the angle formed by the Arc is equal to π/16 radians....

Practice Questions on Arc

Q1. If the angle formed by an Arc is π/32 in a circle with radius equal to 3 unit. What will be the length of Arc?...

Arc – FAQs

What is an Arc?...