Calculating Area of a Spherical Triangle

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In summary, a spherical triangle is a non-euclidean geometry on the two-dimensional surface of a sphere, where the sum of its interior angles is not 180 degrees. The area of a spherical triangle can be found using the concept of spherical excess, as explained in detail in the link provided.
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Weave
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I did not know where to post this but I'm posting it here.
I have just been pondering these pass couple days on how would you find the area of a sphereical trangle.
HOW WOULD YOU DO IT?
 
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So a sphereical triangle is an example of non-euclid geometry right?
 
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Weave said:
So a sphereical triangle is an example of non-euclid geometry right?

The geometry of the sphere [the two-dimensional surface of a ball] is an example of a noneuclidean geometry [since the Parallel Postulate doesn't hold]. A triangle on this surface reveals this because the sum of its interior angles is not 180o.
 

FAQ: Calculating Area of a Spherical Triangle

What is a spherical triangle?

A spherical triangle is a triangle formed on the surface of a sphere by connecting three points with arcs of great circles. It is the analog of a planar triangle on a sphere.

How do you calculate the area of a spherical triangle?

The area of a spherical triangle can be calculated using the formula: A = (a + b + c - π)R^2, where a, b, and c are the angles of the triangle in radians and R is the radius of the sphere. Alternatively, you can use the haversine formula or the law of cosines to calculate the area.

What is the unit of measurement for the area of a spherical triangle?

The unit of measurement for the area of a spherical triangle is usually in square radians or steradians. However, it can also be converted to other units of area such as square meters or square kilometers.

Can I use the same formula to calculate the area of any spherical triangle?

Yes, the formula for calculating the area of a spherical triangle can be used for any type of spherical triangle, regardless of its size or shape.

Is there a difference between calculating the area of a spherical triangle and a planar triangle?

Yes, there is a difference in the formulas used to calculate the area of a spherical triangle and a planar triangle. This is because the curvature of the sphere affects the angles and distance measurements, requiring different calculations for accurate results.

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