How to Calculate Spherical Wedge
What is Spherical Wedge?
Calculates spherical wedge volume from sphere radius and dihedral angle. Portion between two meridian planes.
Formula
Volume = (2/3) × r³ × θ where θ = angle in radians
Step-by-Step Guide
- 1Volume = (2/3) × r³ × θ where θ = angle in radians
- 2Surface area: two half-circles of radius r plus curved surface
- 3Constraint: 0 < θ ≤ 2π (full sphere at θ = 2π)
- 4Related to spherical lune (surface between two great circles)
Worked Examples
Input
r=5, angle 90deg
Result
Vol 130.9
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ✕Using degrees instead of radians
- ✕Confusing wedge with cap or other segments
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a spherical wedge practically?
Slice of an orange between two meridians; segment of Earth between two longitudes.
How does angle relate to volume?
Volume proportional to angle; doubled angle = doubled volume (linear relationship).
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