Spherical Triangles

A spherical triangle is a shape formed on the surface of a sphere, like Earth, using three straight lines called great circle arcs (the largest possible circles on a sphere). Unlike flat triangles, the edges of a spherical triangle curve along the sphere’s surface. The sum of its internal angles exceeds 180 degrees, and the relationships between angles and sides are governed by spherical geometry. These triangles are essential in navigation, astronomy, and geodesy, helping to measure distances and angles on curved surfaces. They demonstrate how geometry extends beyond flat planes to understand the curved space around us.