What is the term for the straight line distance connecting the point of curvature to the point of tangency in a circular curve?

The term that describes the straight line distance connecting the point of curvature to the point of tangency in a circular curve is known as the "chord." This is because a chord is defined as the straight line segment that joins two points on a circle or curve. In the context of circular curves in surveying, the point of curvature marks the beginning of the curve, and the point of tangency marks the end of the curve where it becomes tangent to the straight alignment.

The radius of the circular curve refers to the distance from the center of the circle to any point on the circle, and while it is a related concept, it does not describe the segment connecting the two specific points indicated in the question. The long chord refers to a specific type of chord that is typically used in geometric layouts and calculations but may not apply directly to the description given. The diameter, being a type of chord that passes through the center of the circle, is also not applicable as it represents a line that connects two points on the circle through the center, rather than simply the end points of the curve.

Hence, focusing on the definition and relationship of the elements involved in a circular curve, the chord is the accurate term to describe the straight-line connection between the point