Fiveable
Fiveable

Radius

Definition

The radius is the distance from the center of a circle or sphere to any point on its circumference or surface.

Analogy

Imagine you are at the center of a circular track, and your friend is standing at different points along the edge. The distance between you and your friend is like the radius of the track - it tells you how far away your friend is from the center.

Related terms

Circumference: The circumference is the distance around a circle. It can be calculated using the formula C = 2πr, where r is the radius.

Diameter: The diameter is twice the length of the radius. It is a straight line passing through the center of a circle or sphere and touching two points on its circumference or surface.

Arc Length: Arc length refers to a portion of a curve in a circle's circumference. It can be calculated using θ/360° × 2πr, where θ represents an angle in degrees and r is the radius.



© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

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


© 2024 Fiveable Inc. All rights reserved.

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