A circumference is defined as a two-dimensional figure that has a completely round shape. Circles are characterized by having all their points with the same distance from a fixed point. The fixed point is called the center and the distance from the center to the circumference is called the radius. The most important parts of the circle are the center, the radius, the diameter, the chord, the tangent, the secant, and others.
Here, we will learn more details of the parts of the circumference. We will use illustrations to improve our understanding of the concepts.
Most important parts of a circumference
The main elements of a circumference are:
- Center
- Radius
- Arc
- Chord
- Diameter
- Tangent
- Secant
Center
The center is defined as the fixed point that is located inside the circumference. This point is equidistant from any point on the circumference.
Radius
The radius of a circle is the constant distance from the center to any point on the circle. The radius is generally represented by the letter r.
Arc
The arc is defined as a portion of the circumference. The arc is bounded by two points on the circumference. An angle is used to measure the arc.
Chord
The chord is a line segment that is located on the inside of the circumference and that joins a pair of points on the circumference.
Diameter
A diameter is a line segment that joins two points on the circumference and passes through the center. Diameter is also defined as a chord that passes through the center. The length of the diameter is exactly twice the length of the radius.
Tangent
The tangent is a straight line that passes through the outside of the circumference and touches it at a single point.
Secant
The secant is a straight line that passes through the inner part of the circumference and is touched by two different points.
Additional parts of a circumference
In addition to the most important parts, we also have the following parts in a circumference:
- Semicircumference
- Central angle
- Inscribed angle
Semi circumference
The semi circumference is defined as an arc that is equal to the exact half of the circumference. The semi circumference is limited by the two ends of the diameter.
Central angle
At a central angle of the circumference, two radii form its sides.
Inscribed angle
At an inscribed angle on the circumference, the vertex is located at a point on the circumference. Also, the sides are formed by two chords of the circumference.
See also
Interested in learning more about circles and circumferences? Take a look at these pages:
Jefferson Huera Guzman
Jefferson is the lead author and administrator of Neurochispas.com. The interactive Mathematics and Physics content that I have created has helped many students.
