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centre of curvature

British  

noun

  1. the point on the normal at a given point on a curve on the concave side of the curve whose distance from the point on the curve is equal to the radius of curvature

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

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It is an application of the principle of having the cutting tool as long as the radius of curvature, and allowing it to move about the centre of curvature.

From On Laboratory Arts by Threlfall, Richard

Both arms of the beam carry circular-arched heads, which are similar portions of the complete circles, the centre of curvature being the fulcrum, or axis.

From A Treatise on Meteorological Instruments Explanatory of Their Scientific Principles, Method of Construction, and Practical Utility by Negretti, Henry

These reflectors should be spherical and so adjusted that the radiant is in the centre of curvature, thus ensuring that the light from the reflector passes again through the original source.

From Optical Projection Part 1: Projection of Lantern Slides by Wright, Lewis

The source and screen are partly independent, and each is provided with a fine adjustment which serves to place it in position near the centre of curvature.

From On Laboratory Arts by Threlfall, Richard

Then if O is the centre of curvature in the plane of the paper, and BO = u, 1 = cos�ω + sin�ω .

From Encyclopaedia Britannica, 11th Edition, Volume 5, Slice 3 "Capefigue" to "Carneades" by Various