Verifying a Calculation of Curvature

In summary, the conversation was about finding the unit tangent and unit normal vectors for a given problem and using Formula 9 to find the curvature. The person's curvature calculation came out as 1/t, but it was determined to be acceptable since it is a function of t and not a constant value.
  • #1
mr_coffee
1,629
1
Hello everyone, I think i did this problem right, but I want to make sure sure. The directions are as fallows:
(a) find the unit tagent and unit normal vectors T(t) and N(t).
(b) Use Formula 9 to find curvature.
Note: formula 9 is the one i have on my paper: k(t) = |T'(t)|/|r'(t)|;
my curvature came out as 1/t, is it okay that it still has the variable t in it or was it supppose to be a real number? it is a function of t so I'm assuming its okay. here is the problem and work, if its too hard to read tell me and i'll try to rescan it, the work from the other side is showing through alittle :eek:
http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/1275/kurve6kg.jpg
Thanks!
 
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  • #2
I haven't cranked through it myself, but your procedure looks fine.

mr_coffee said:
Note: formula 9 is the one i have on my paper: k(t) = |T'(t)|/|r'(t)|;
my curvature came out as 1/t, is it okay that it still has the variable t in it or was it supppose to be a real number?

It's OK. The fact that the curvature depends on the parameter is simply an indication of the fact that the curvature varies as you move along the curve. In other words, it simply indicates that you are not dealing with a circle (which has constant curvature).
 
  • #3
cool thanks!
 

FAQ: Verifying a Calculation of Curvature

What is the purpose of verifying a calculation of curvature?

The purpose of verifying a calculation of curvature is to ensure the accuracy and validity of the results. This is important in scientific research as it allows for the identification of any errors or discrepancies in the calculations, which could potentially lead to incorrect conclusions or findings.

How is curvature calculated?

Curvature can be calculated using various mathematical equations, depending on the type of curvature being measured. For example, the curvature of a line can be calculated using the formula k = (y''/((1+(y')^2)^(3/2)), where y'' is the second derivative of the line. The curvature of a surface can be calculated using the Gaussian curvature equation, K = (LN - M^2)/(EG - F^2), where L, M, N, E, F, and G are the coefficients of the first and second fundamental forms of the surface.

What are some common sources of error in calculating curvature?

Some common sources of error in calculating curvature include rounding errors, incorrect input data, and using the wrong mathematical equation. In some cases, the curvature of a surface may also vary depending on the point of measurement, so it is important to consider this when verifying calculations.

How can the accuracy of a calculation of curvature be verified?

The accuracy of a calculation of curvature can be verified by comparing the results to known values or using alternative methods of calculation. In addition, it is important to double-check all input data and ensure that the correct mathematical equation is being used.

What are some real-world applications of calculating curvature?

Calculating curvature has many real-world applications, such as in engineering and architecture for designing curved structures, in physics for analyzing the curvature of space-time, and in medicine for measuring the curvature of bones and joints. It also has applications in computer graphics and animation for creating realistic curved surfaces.

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