Curvature Example: Cubic

The cubic r(t)=< t, t3 >, -2 ≤ t ≤ 2 .
  • Red: unit tangent vector, T(t)
  • Green: unit normal vector, N(t)
  • Yellow: Osculating Circle

Move the mouse pointer over the picture to begin the animation. It repeats in an endless loop. You can use the following controls:

  • Shift+Click+Drag Up/Down: zoom in/out
  • Home: reset the image
  • Double Click: stop/restart the animation. Once it's stopped, you can click and drag the point along the curve.

Created using Mathematica and LiveGraphics3D.

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