radius of curvature

noun

, Mathematics.

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

radius of curvature

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of radius of curvature¹

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

On the western slope, which was ten thousand six hundred and fifty feet in length, the maximum grade was two hundred and eighty feet per mile, and the ruling radius of curvature three hundred feet.

From Project Gutenberg

It is physically impossible to mill out a concave cycloid, by any means whatever, because at the pitch line its radius of curvature is zero, and a milling cutter must have a sensible diameter.

From Project Gutenberg

The distance from P to the centre of curvature is the radius of curvature.

From Project Gutenberg

In order that the theory may hold good the radius of curvature must be very large.

From Project Gutenberg