cur
va
ture
1
the state or quality of being curved or bent, describing the shape or contour of an object or surface
- The curvature of the race track posed a challenge for drivers navigating tight turns.
- The curvature of the Earth becomes apparent when viewing the horizon from a high vantage point.
- Engineers designed the lens with precise curvature to achieve optimal light refraction.
- The curvature of the spine affected her posture and overall flexibility.
- The curvature of the waves on the beach created picturesque scenes at sunset.
Synonyms:
2
the measure of how much a curve or surface deviates from being straight or flat at a specific point
- In differential geometry, curvature helps quantify the bending or deviation of a curve at a given point.
- Positive curvature indicates a curve bending in one direction, while negative curvature signifies a bend in the opposite direction.
- The curvature of a circle is constant and equal to the reciprocal of its radius.
- Curvature is crucial in understanding the shape and behavior of surfaces, such as those found in 3D modeling and computer graphics.
- Engineers consider curvature in designing roads and railways to ensure safe and smooth transitions between curves.
3
(medicine) a curving or bending; often abnormal