Equation of a Circle in JavaScript | Animate Circular Motion using HTML5 Canvas
Understanding the Equation of a Circle | Maths Explanation for JavaScript Kids
The equation of a circle is a fundamental concept in senior secondary mathematics and geometry.
In this tutorial, we'll explore the circle equation formula, look at examples,
and even show how to implement the equation of a circle in JavaScript for interactive learning.
The equation of a circle is expressed as (x - a)² + (y - b)² = r²,
where (a, b) is the centre and r is the radius.
In JavaScript, this equation allows us to compute x and y
coordinates to draw or animate circles on an HTML5 canvas.
The equation of a circle helps determine all points (x, y) that are a fixed distance r from a centre (a, b).
Let's explore how to convert this mathematical idea into JavaScript code.
Drawing a Circle Using the Circle Equation in JavaScript
Circles are represented by the general equation
(x - a)2 + (y - b)2 = r2;
where (a, b) is the centre of the circle and
r the radius.
In JavaScript, this equation helps us calculate the x and y
coordinates needed to draw or animate circular motion on an HTML5 canvas.
Solving for y, we have:
(y - b)2 = r2 - (x - a)2
y - b = ±√(r2 - (x - a)2)
y = b ± √(r2 - (x - a)2)
This form lets us compute the upper and lower halves of a circle,
perfect for visualizing circular paths or motion trajectories.
Parametric Equations of a Circle | Maths Explanation for JavaScript Kids
Circular motion can also be represented parametrically:
x = a + r * cos(θ)
y = b + r * sin(θ)
These equations make it easier to create smooth circular movement in JavaScript,
especially for animations, games, and physics simulations.
How to Find the Equation of a Circle - Step by Step JavaScript Algorithm
Identify the centre and radius.
Substitute them into the standard form of the circle equation.
Expand if needed to get the general form of the circle equation.
This process is often used in senior secondary maths exams and problem-solving.
JavaScript Code: Animating Circular Motion
To animate a circular motion or move an object along a circle, we can increment x values between
a - r and a + r, then compute y from the circle equation in JavaScript.
Create a new file; On Notepad++: File, New.
Call it circular_path.html.
Type out the adjoining JavaScript code for animating an image body through the path of a circle.
How the JavaScript Circular Motion Animation Code Works
'Math.pow()' and 'Math.sqrt()' implement the circle formula directly.
HTML5 Canvas API ('context.arc') plots circular points.
The function 'moveCyclic()' simulates circular motion animation in JavaScript
by redrawing the dot along the circle's upper and lower arcs.
Each frame updates x and y values according to the equation of a circle.
This animation demonstrates circular motion in JavaScript using algebraic updates
derived directly from the circle equation.
Key Takeaways on Circular Path Animation in JavaScript
In this tutorial, you've learned that:
The circle equation forms the foundation for circular motion and geometry in JavaScript.
You can draw circles using ctx.arc() or by calculating x and y using cosine and sine.
Animating objects in a circular path is just a time-based update of these coordinates.
Applications of Circle Equation in JavaScript Programming and STEM Education
Understanding how to derive motion from mathematical equations helps bridge geometry and programming.
You can extend this principle to:
Draw circular regions and ellipses
Create rotating animations
Build interactive math visualizations using HTML5 Canvas
FAQs: Circle Equation and JavaScript
What is the equation of a circle?
The equation of a circle is (x - a)² + (y - b)² = r², where (a, b) is the centre and r is the radius.
How do I draw a circle in JavaScript?
Use the HTML5 Canvas API and the ctx.arc() method to draw a circle. Example: ctx.arc(x, y, radius, 0, 2 * Math.PI);.
How else can I animate circular motion in JavaScript?
Use the parametric equations x = a + r * cos(θ) and y = b + r * sin(θ) while incrementing θ inside a
requestAnimationFrame loop for smooth animation.
Summary: Visualizing Circle Equation in JavaScript
The circle equation in JavaScript helps us apply coordinate geometry to real-world programming.
By using the mathematical formula (x - a)² + (y - b)² = r², we can easily
draw and animate circles on the HTML5 <canvas>.
This JavaScript tutorial has shown you how to calculate circle points, render them on the HTML5 canvas, and even
simulate circular motion using mathematics.
The equation of a circle is a fundamental topic in geometry and senior secondary mathematics.
By understanding the circle equation formula, practicing with examples, and experimenting with the JavaScript circle equation,
you'll strengthen both your maths and coding skills.
So! JavaScript Fun Practice Exercise - Animate along Circular Path
As a fun practice exercise, try adjusting the centre points - a, b;
and the radius - r to change the circle's position and size.
This will be a great way to connect mathematics and programming, and help you
understand more about JavaScript animations and circle equations.
<canvasid="move_quad"width="500"height="350"style="border: 1px solid #000000;">
Your browser (version) does not support canvas object; Time to update! </canvas> <buttononclick="moveCyclic()">Move</button>
<script> var canvas = document.getElementById("move_quad"); var context = canvas.getContext("2d");
context.fillStyle ="#888888"; // color for our body(circle)
var a =250; var b =175; var r =150; var x = a - r; var y = b; // draw a dot
context.beginPath();
context.arc(x, y, 5, 0, 2*Math.PI);
context.fill();
function moveCyclic(){ // condition for continuing motion if(x <= a + r){
y = b -Math.sqrt(Math.pow(r, 2)-Math.pow((x - a), 2)); // redraw dot (upper curve)
context.beginPath();
context.arc(x, y, 5, 0, 2*Math.PI);
context.fill();
y = b +Math.sqrt(Math.pow(r, 2)-Math.pow((x - a), 2)); // redraw dot (lower curve)
context.beginPath();
context.arc(x, y, 5, 0, 2*Math.PI);
context.fill();
x +=20;
setTimeout(function(){ moveCyclic(); }, 200); } } </script>