Draw the best circles with compasses!
- Compasses are stationery items that are primarily used to draw accurate circles and curves.
- Compasses have previously been used to draw accurate diagrams, although in modern times, computer technology is more often used.
- Today, compasses are often used in teaching, particularly in geometry subjects in mathematics.
- Compasses are typically produced from materials of metal and plastic.
- Compasses generally have two small rods, one with a point and one with a pencil holder, which are connected with a hinge, that gives the ability to change the angle of the rods.
- Compasses are used to draw circles by placing the point and the pencil on the paper, pivoting it on the point, and putting pressure on the pencil.
- Sizes of circles and curves can be altered by adjusting the angle of the compass.
- Sometimes a compass has two pointed ends, and can be used as a ruler replacement, as a measurement tool particularly for maps.
- Compasses are sometimes used as a symbol of accuracy and judgement.
- It is believed the Greek mathematician, Euclid, from 300 BC, made use of a type of compass, and the Italian mathematician, Galileo, in the late 1500s or early 1600s, designed a compass, and sold them with an accompanying book.
Bibliography:
Compass (Drafting), 2013, Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compass_(drafting)
