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Sector - GCSE Maths Definition

Reviewed by: Dan Finlay

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In mathematics, a sector is part of the area of a circle made from an arc and two radii (radiuses). Think of a typical slice of cake or pizza for what a sector looks like.

Technically, the two radii and the arc split a circle into two sectors - one large, one small, referred to as the major sector and minor sector. 'Sector' alone usually refers to the smaller. In GCSE Mathematics, you may be required to find the area of a sector, and/or its perimeter and so solve more general geometric problems involving parts of a circle.

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Dan Finlay

Reviewer: Dan Finlay

Expertise: Maths Subject Lead

Dan graduated from the University of Oxford with a First class degree in mathematics. As well as teaching maths for over 8 years, Dan has marked a range of exams for Edexcel, tutored students and taught A Level Accounting. Dan has a keen interest in statistics and probability and their real-life applications.

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