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

See Examples For:

radius of curvature

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

Use the law of reflection to prove that the focal length of a mirror is half its radius of curvature.

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

Figure 6.38 Teardrop-shaped loops are used in the latest roller coasters so that the radius of curvature gradually decreases to a minimum at the top.

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

What is the radius of curvature of the path of a 10 MeV proton in this field?

From Textbooks ● Aug. 12, 2015

Let the plane of the paper be a normal section of the surface of the stratum at the point B, making an angle ω with the section whose radius of curvature is R1.

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