The curve you’re asking about is called a spiral.

Quick Scoop: What is that curve?

A spiral is a curve that starts near a central point and keeps winding around it while gradually moving farther away. Each turn takes it a bit further from the center, so the distance from the point increases as the curve revolves.

Common examples:

  • The shape of many snail shells
  • A spiral staircase when viewed from above
  • The arms of some galaxies

In more formal math language, it’s “a curve which emanates from a point, moving farther away as it revolves around the point” — exactly the wording you gave.

Mini FAQ

Q: Is “spiral” the only correct term?

  • For basic geometry or school-level questions, spiral is the expected and accepted answer.
  • In higher math, there are specific kinds of spirals (like Archimedean spirals or logarithmic spirals), but they are all types of spirals.

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