Degree Measure of Central Angle

In summary, the degree measure of a central angle is the number of degrees formed by the two radii that make up the angle. It is measured in degrees (°) and can range from 0° to 360°. To find the degree measure of a central angle, you can use the formula: degree measure = (arc length/radius) * 360°. The degree measure of a central angle is directly proportional to the arc length it intercepts, and it cannot be greater than 360°. Additionally, the degree measure of a central angle is equal to the measure of its corresponding minor or major arc.
  • #1
mathdad
1,283
1
In a circle of radius 3 meters, the area of a certain sector is 20 m^2. Find the degree measure of the central angle. Round the answer to two decimal places.

Must I use A = (1/2)(r^2)(theta)?
 
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  • #2
You don't have to but you certainly can!

You are told that A= 20 and r= 3. So what is \(\displaystyle \theta\) in radians (the formula you give requires that \(\displaystyle \theta\) be in radians)? And then what is \(\displaystyle \theta\) in degrees?
 
  • #3
Theta = 40/9

Theta in degree measure is 254.6°.

Theta in radian measure is 4.444 radians.
 
  • #4
Yes, that is correct.
 
  • #5
Very good.
 

FAQ: Degree Measure of Central Angle

What is the degree measure of a central angle?

The degree measure of a central angle is the number of degrees formed by the two radii that make up the angle. It is measured in degrees (°) and can range from 0° to 360°.

How do you find the degree measure of a central angle?

To find the degree measure of a central angle, you can use the formula: degree measure = (arc length/radius) * 360°. The arc length is the length of the arc created by the central angle, and the radius is the distance from the center of the circle to the endpoints of the arc.

What is the relationship between the degree measure of a central angle and the arc length it intercepts?

The degree measure of a central angle is directly proportional to the arc length it intercepts. This means that as the degree measure increases, the arc length also increases. Similarly, as the degree measure decreases, the arc length also decreases.

Can the degree measure of a central angle be greater than 360°?

No, the degree measure of a central angle cannot be greater than 360°. This is because a full circle is 360°, and any angle that is greater than 360° would result in more than one full circle, which is not possible.

What is the relationship between the degree measure of a central angle and the measure of its corresponding minor or major arc?

The degree measure of a central angle is equal to the measure of its corresponding minor or major arc. This means that if a central angle has a degree measure of 60°, its corresponding minor or major arc will also have a measure of 60°.

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