Simple Curve

Pronunciation: /ˈsɪm.pəl kɜrv/ Explain

Two geometric figures. The figure on top is a closed curve that does not cross itself similar to an ellipse. This curve is labeled 'simple'. On the bottom is a closed curve that crosses itself, similar to an eight lying on its side. This curve is labeled 'complex'.
Figure 1: Simple and complex curves.

A simple curve is a curve that does not cross itself. A complex curve is a curve that is not simple. One way to think of a simple curve is that a path can be traversed along the curve from end to end or, for a closed curve, from a point back to itself, that does not intersect itself.

References

  1. McAdams, David E.. All Math Words Dictionary, simple curve. 2nd Classroom edition 20150108-4799968. pg 165. Life is a Story Problem LLC. January 8, 2015. Buy the book

Cite this article as:

 McAdams, David E. Simple Curve. 12/21/2018. All Math Words Encyclopedia. Life is a Story Problem LLC. https://www.allmathwords.org/en/s/simplecurve.html.

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Revision History

12/21/2018: Reviewed and corrected IPA pronunication. (McAdams, David E.)
12/6/2018: Removed broken links, updated license, implemented new markup. (McAdams, David E.)
5/5/2011: Initial version. (McAdams, David E.)

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