RADIUS VECTOR • E-FREE TRANSLATION.COM • Definition of Radius vector

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noun

Radius vector n.

(Math.) A straight line (or the length of such line) connecting any point, as of a curve, with a fixed point, or pole, round which the straight line turns, and to which it serves to refer the successive points of a curve, in a system of polar coordinates. See Coordinate, n.

(Astron.) An ideal straight line joining the center of an attracting body with that of a body describing an orbit around it, as a line joining the sun and a planet or comet, or a planet and its satellite.

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Etymology of 'Radius vector'

Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48

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"Radius vector" Quotes from Famous Books

... the circle PER represents the earth, E the equator, PP' the poles, T the centre of the earth, C the mechanical centre of the terral vortex, M the moon, XX' the axis of the vortex, and A the point where the radius vector of the moon pierces the surface of the earth. If we consider the axis of the vortex to be the axis of equilibrium in the system, it is evident that TC will be to CM, as the mass of the moon to the mass of the earth. Now, if we take these masses respectively as 1 to 72.3, and the moon's ...

— Outlines of a Mechanical Theory of Storms - Containing the True Law of Lunar Influence • T. Bassnett