How to Calculate the Radius of a Sector: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn to find the radius of a sector using arc length and area formulas. Perfect for math students looking to improve their skills!

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To find the radius of a sector, you can use the formula for the arc length or the area of the sector. For arc length (L) and central angle (θ in radians), use: `radius = L / θ`. For the area of the sector (A) and angle in radians: `radius = sqrt((2A) / θ)`. Make sure the angle is in radians, not degrees.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the formula to find the radius of a sector using arc length? To find the radius of a sector using arc length (L) and central angle (θ in radians), use the formula: radius = L / θ.
  2. How do I calculate the radius of a sector given its area? To calculate the radius of a sector given its area (A) and angle in radians (θ), use the formula: radius = sqrt((2A) / θ).
  3. Why is the angle measured in radians for these formulas? Radians provide a direct relationship between the radius and the angle in circular motion, making calculations more straightforward.
  4. Can I use degrees to find the radius of a sector? No, the formulas provided require the angle to be in radians for accurate radius calculations.