The radius of a circle is 12 inches. What is the angle measure of an arc [tex]3 \pi[/tex] inches long?

Give the exact answer in simplest form.

[tex]\square[/tex]



Answer :

To solve the problem of finding the angle measure of an arc with a length of \(3 \pi\) inches in a circle with a radius of 12 inches, follow these steps:

1. Understand the Relationship:
The length of an arc (\(s\)) in a circle is related to the radius (\(r\)) and the angle subtended by the arc at the circle's center (\(\theta\)) using the formula:
[tex]\[ s = r \cdot \theta \][/tex]

2. Given Values:
- The radius \(r\) is 12 inches.
- The arc length \(s\) is \(3 \pi\) inches.

3. Set up the Equation:
Substitute the given values into the formula:
[tex]\[ 3\pi = 12 \cdot \theta \][/tex]

4. Solve for \(\theta\):
Isolate \(\theta\) on one side of the equation by dividing both sides by 12:
[tex]\[ \theta = \frac{3\pi}{12} = \frac{\pi}{4} \][/tex]

So, the angle \(\theta\) in radians is \(\frac{\pi}{4}\).

To provide the angle in degrees (for those who prefer degrees):

1. Convert Radians to Degrees:
Use the conversion factor \(180^\circ = \pi\) radians.
[tex]\[ \theta = \frac{\pi}{4} \times \frac{180^\circ}{\pi} = 45^\circ \][/tex]

Thus, the angle measure of an arc \(3 \pi\) inches long in a circle with a radius of 12 inches is \( \frac{\pi}{4} \) radians or \( 45^\circ \).

- Exact answer in radians: \(\frac{\pi}{4}\)
- Answer in degrees: [tex]\(45^\circ\)[/tex]