Regular Polygons and Circumference

The calculation of some measurements of regular polygons, such as side and apothema, can be performed with the help of a circle. For possible calculations, the polygon must be inscribed on the circumference, where we will determine the measure of the side and the apothema as a function of the measure of the radius.


Square inscribed on the circle

 Applying the Pythagorean Theorem we have the following relationships:

Side

Apothem


Hexagon inscribed on the circle

Side

Note from the figure that 6 triangles were formed, all equilateral. To verify this statement, just remember that the complete turn on the circumference has 360º, dividing this value between the six triangles we create equal vertex angles at the center of the circle. to 60º. Thus, the angles at the base of each triangle also measure 60°, so we conclude that they are equilateral. In this case we have that the measure of the radius of the circle is equal to the measure of the side of the hexagon.

Apothem


To calculate the measure of the apothema and the side in relation to other polygons, we must use as reference to the demonstrations carried out, establishing dependence on the measure of the radius of the circumference.


by Mark Noah
Graduated in Mathematics
Brazil School Team

Trigonometry - Math - Brazil School

Source: Brazil School - https://brasilescola.uol.com.br/matematica/poligonos-regulares-circunferencia.htm

Guide to attracting bees: 7 strategies for a garden full of these pollinators

Bees are an important resource for the flowering and dissemination of plants and flowers. This is...

read more

The 5 secrets to spot a fake 'friendship' miles away

Studies have already proven that each and every human being needs to create social ties in order ...

read more

7 simple and effective steps to strengthen your writing

From what is read, it is possible to keep up to date, raise the level of interpretation and devel...

read more