Geometric terms of location describe directions or positions relative to the
shape of an object. These terms are used in descriptions of
engineering,
physics, and other sciences, as well as ordinary day-to-day discourse.
Though these terms themselves may be somewhat
ambiguous, they are usually used in a context in which their meaning is clear. For example, when referring to a
drive shaft it is clear what is meant by
axial or
radial directions. Or, in a
free body diagram, one may similarly infer a sense of orientation by the forces or
othervectors represented.[citation needed]
Examples
Common geometric terms of location are:
Axial – along the center of a round body, or the
axis of rotation of a body
Radial – along a direction pointing along a
radius from the center of an object, or
perpendicular to a curved path.
Lateral – spanning the width of a body. The distinction between width and length may be unclear out of context.
Adjacent – next to
Lineal – following along a given path. The shape of the path is not necessarily straight (compare to
linear). For instance, a length of rope might be measured in lineal
meters or
feet. See
arc length.
Projection / Projected - in
architecture, facade sticking out; convex.
Recession / Recessed - the action of receding; away from an observer; concave.