Find the area of a sector of a circle with radius 6 cm if angle of the sector is 60°.
Theory:
A sector is a region of a circle bounded by two radii and the corresponding arc.
The area of a sector depends on the central angle \(\theta\) and radius \(r\).
Formula:
\[ \text{Area of sector} = \frac{\theta}{360^\circ} \times \pi r^2 \]
Solution Roadmap:
- Identify radius and central angle
- Substitute values into sector area formula
- Simplify step-by-step carefully
- Write final answer with correct unit
Solution:
Radius of the circle, \(r = 6\ cm\)
Angle of the sector, \(\theta = 60^\circ\)
Step 1: Write formula
\[ A = \frac{\theta}{360^\circ} \times \pi r^2 \]
Step 2: Substitute values
\[ A = \frac{60}{360} \times \pi \times 6^2 \]
Step 3: Simplify fraction
\[ \frac{60}{360} = \frac{1}{6} \]
\[ A = \frac{1}{6} \times \pi \times 36 \]
Step 4: Multiply
\[ A = 6\pi \]
Step 5: Use \(\pi = \frac{22}{7}\)
\[ A = 6 \times \frac{22}{7} \]
\[ A = \frac{132}{7} \]
Step 6: Decimal value
\[ A \approx 18.857\ cm^2 \]
Final Answer: \(A \approx 18.857\ cm^2\)
Exam Significance:
- Very common 2–3 mark direct formula-based question in CBSE Board exams
- Tests clarity of formula application and simplification
- Frequently used as a base for mixed problems (sector + segment)
- Important for competitive exams like NTSE, Olympiads, and foundation JEE