What are some applications of using radian measure?

1 Answer
Jan 11, 2015

In physics you use radians to describe circular motion, in particular you use them to determine angular velocity, #omega#.
You may be familiar with the concept of linear velocity given by the ratio of displacement over time, as:
#v=(x_f-x_i)/t#
where #x_f# is the final position and #x_i# is the initial position (along a line).
Now, if you have a circular motion you use the final and initial ANGLES described during the motion to calculate velocity, as:
#omega=(theta_f-theta_i)/t#
Where #theta# is the angle in radians.
#omega# is angular velocity measured in rad/sec.
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(Picture source: http://francesa.phy.cmich.edu/people/andy/physics110/book/chapters/chapter6.htm)

Have a look to other rotational quantities you'll find a lot of ...radians!