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Sharpness of the curve can be determined by _________
A) Radius
B) Degree of curvature
C) Both A and B
D) Tangent
Both A and B
The sharpness of a circular curve in survey engineering defines how rapidly it changes direction. It can be expressed either in terms of its radius (R) or its degree of curvature (D). A smaller radius or a larger degree of curvature indicates a sharper curve.
The sharpness of a circular curve in survey engineering defines how rapidly it changes direction. It can be expressed either in terms of its radius (R) or its degree of curvature (D). A smaller radius or a larger degree of curvature indicates a sharper curve.
D=R1146 — Degree of curve (for 20m arc definition in degrees)
D=R1719 — Degree of curve (for 30m arc definition in degrees)
R=πD180×S — General radius-degree relation for arc length S
As the radius of a curve decreases, the sharpness increases, requiring a higher rate of deflection. Alternatively, the degree of curvature (D) measures the central angle subtended by a standard arc or chord length (typically 20 m or 30 m), which is inversely proportional to the radius.
Degree of curve (D) and Radius (R) are inversely proportional.
Higher degree of curve implies a sharper curve.
Curve designation can be specified either by radius (in meters) or degree (in degrees).
Degree definition allows easier layout of curves using standard tape lengths on field.
Radius definition provides direct calculation of geometric parameters like centrifugal force.
Chord definition introduces minor approximation errors compared to exact arc definition for very sharp curves.
Highway geometric design for deciding safe transition and circular curve limits.
Railway track alignment design for determining speed restrictions.
Option A (Radius) defines sharpness: smaller radius = sharper curve.
Option B (Degree of curvature) defines sharpness: larger degree = sharper curve.
Option D (Tangent) represents the straight line touching the curve at T1 or T2, used for computing curve length and layout, but does not independently define sharpness.
C is correct — Both radius and degree of curvature are standard measures used to express the sharpness of a circular curve.
Remember that in Indian Railways, 30 m arc length is commonly referenced (D≈R1719), whereas IRC uses 20 m or 30 m depending on road standards (D≈R1146 for 20 m).