Geometry - Regular Poligon Of N Sides

Regular Polygon of N Sides

Understanding Regular Polygons: Definitions, Properties, and Key Formulas

A regular polygon is a two-dimensional geometric figure with all sides equal in length and all interior angles equal in measure. Examples include equilateral triangles (3 sides), squares (4 sides), and regular pentagons (5 sides). Regular polygons are symmetric and are widely used in geometry, architecture, art, and design due to their uniform structure.

Regular Polygon of N Sides showing radius, side, and angles

Key Properties of a Regular Polygon

  1. Equal Sides and Angles: Every side and every internal angle are the same.
  2. Symmetry: A regular polygon is symmetrical about its center.
  3. It Can Be Inscribed: A circle can be drawn inside or around a regular polygon touching all its vertices or sides.

Key Formulas for a Regular Polygon

1. Perimeter \(P\):

The total length around the polygon:

\[ P = a \times N \]

  • \(a\): Length of one side
  • \(N\): Number of sides

2. Area \(A\):

The area of a regular polygon using side length:

\[ A = \frac{a^2 N}{4 \tan\left(\frac{180^\circ}{N}\right)} = \frac{a^2 N}{4 \tan\left(\frac{\pi}{N}\right)} \]

Alternatively, using circumradius \(R\):

\[ A = \frac{R^2 \sin\left(\frac{360^\circ}{N}\right)}{2} = \frac{R^2 \sin\left(\frac{2 \pi}{N}\right)}{2} \]

  • \(a\): Side length
  • \(R\): Circumradius (radius of the circumscribed circle)
  • \(N\): Number of sides

3. Inradius \(r\) and Circumradius \(R\):

The inradius and circumradius relate to the side length as:

\[ r = \frac{a}{2} \cot\left(\frac{180^\circ}{N}\right) \]

\[ R = \frac{a}{2 \sin\left(\frac{180^\circ}{N}\right)} \]

Conversion identity used:

\[ 2\pi = 360^\circ \]

Applications of Regular Polygons

  • Architecture: Used in floor plans, tiling, domes, and structural patterns.
  • Mathematics: Helpful in trigonometry, geometry, and polygonal number theory.
  • Nature and Design: Seen in honeycombs, crystals, and logo designs due to symmetry.
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