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Calculus › Using definite integrals › arc length

arc length

Using definite integrals
L=ab\sqrt1+f(x)^2dx

Interpretation

The arc length represents the total distance traveled along a curve defined by a function between two points. The integral accounts for both the horizontal and vertical components of the curve's path.

Conditions and Properties

This integral provides the total length of the curve between the specified endpoints. The integrand reflects the relationship between the slope of the curve and the actual distance traveled along the curve.

Notes & references