radius of curvature

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. the absolute value of the reciprocal of the curvature at a point on a curve.

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radius of curvature British  

noun

1. the absolute value of the reciprocal of the curvature of a curve at a given point; the radius of a circle the curvature of which is equal to that of the given curve at that point See also centre of curvature

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Etymology

Origin of radius of curvature

First recorded in 1745–55

Example Sentences

Both wedging and interleaving can be quantified in units of radius of curvature, so are ideal for characterizing curved epithelia.

From Nature • Sep. 9, 2018

The larger the Fc , the smaller the radius of curvature r and the sharper the curve.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Where is the filament of the light in relation to the focal point or radius of curvature of each mirror?

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Among the things to consider are the types of ions, the velocities they can be given before entering the magnetic field, and a reasonable value for the radius of curvature of the paths they follow.

From Textbooks • Aug. 12, 2015

Then the radius of curvature ρ is given by the formula 2ρ= a2/3d +d.

From On Laboratory Arts by Threlfall, Richard