How do you measure a curve?

Question

Is there an algorithm to measure the length of a curve, be it a bezier or just a simple squiggly line?

Points for the best answer! Thanks!

Answer 1

use a peice of string!

Answer 2

To measure a curve on a computer screen you could approximating the length with a trapezoid. Then by dividing the big trapezoid in 2 smaller ones you will have an even better approximation. Dividing the 2 smaller ones into 4 even smaller ones....and this continues until you reach your desired level of approximation.

Answer 3

Use string and then measure how much it took to go around the curve!

Answer 4

if you are dealing with a curve on a physical tangible object you could use a string, and then hold the string up to a ruler.. If you are talking computers, then I dont know...

Answer 5

String will work, but there are theorems and equations you can use depending on the type of curve.