Fundamental Theorem of Curves

In differential geometry, the fundamental theorem of curves states that any regular curve with non-zero curvature has its shape (and size) completely determined by its curvature and torsion.

A curve can be described, and thereby defined, by a pair of scalar fields: curvature and torsion, both of which depend on some parameter which parametrizes the curve but which can ideally be the arc length of the curve. From just the curvature and torsion, the vector fields for the tangent, normal, and binormal vectors can be derived using the Frenet-Serret formulas. Then, integration of the tangent field (done numerically, if not analytically) yields the curve.

If a pair of curves are in different positions but have the same curvature and torsion, then they are congruent to each other.

Fundamental mathematical theorems
  • Arithmetic
  • Algebra
  • Calculus
  • Linear algebra
  • Calculus of variations
  • Vector analysis
  • Homomorphisms
  • Galois theory
Geometric
  • Curves
  • Projective
  • Riemannian
of Groups
  • Cyclic
  • Finitely generated Abelian

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