A helix is defined as a spiral that also has a linear dependence upon a third dimension. Found both within nature and within the man-made world, examples of helices include springs, coils and spiral staircases. The length of a helix can be calculated using a simple formula.
Write down the quantities that define the helix. A helix can be defined by three quantities: the radius, the rise of the helix in one revolution and the number of turns. For this example, we will define the following symbols:
Calculate the length associated with one turn within the helix. To do this use the following formula:
In this nomenclature, H^2 means "H multiplied by H" or "H squared." C is the circumference of the circle and is equal to :
For example, if a spiral staircase has a radius of 1 meter, then the circumference is equal to :
If the staircase rises by approximately 2 meters after each turn (H = 2) then the length associated with one turn around the staircase is:
Calculate the total helical length (T). To do this use the formula:
Following the example, if the staircase has 10 turns:
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