Grade 9 → Constructions ↓
Basic Constructions
In mathematics, constructing means drawing shapes, angles or lines precisely. These constructions are often done with the help of tools like a compass, straightedge (ruler) or protractor. The beauty of constructing is in the precision and pure logic behind creating shapes and angles without any numerical measurements. This should give you a deeper understanding of geometry. Let's take a look at some basic constructions.
1. Construction of a line segment
A line segment is a portion of a line that is bounded by two distinct endpoints. Creating a line segment of a fixed length is a basic task. You can do it like this:
- Draw a straight line using a ruler.
- Mark a point
A
on the line. This will be one of the endpoints of the line segment. - Place the compass pointer at
A
, and open it to the desired length of the segment. - Keeping the compass open at the same width, place the pointer on
A
and draw an arc across the line. - Mark the point where the arc and line intersect,
B
.AB
is the line segment you created.
2. Constructing a perpendicular bisector of a line segment
The perpendicular bisector of a line segment is the line that divides the segment into two equal parts at a 90 degree angle. Here is how to construct it:
- Given a line segment
AB
, place the compass pointer at one of its ends, sayA
, and adjust its width so that it covers a little more than half of the line segment. - Draw arcs above and below the line.
- Without changing the width of the compass, repeat the same from the other endpoint
B
. - Mark the two points
P
andQ
where the arcs intersect. - Draw a line through
P
andQ
. This is the perpendicular bisector of lineAB
.
3. Construction of angle bisector
An angle bisector is a line that divides an angle into two equal smaller angles. Constructing it involves the following steps:
- Place the compass needle at point
Y
for angle∠XYZ
. - Draw an arc on both sides of the angle, creating intersection point
A
on sideXY
and intersection pointB
on sideYZ
. - Now, place the compass needle at
A
and draw an arc inside the angle. - Without changing the width of the compass, repeat the same arc from point
B
. - Mark the point of intersection of the two arcs as
C
. - Draw a line from
Y
toC
. This line is the bisector of∠XYZ
.
4. Construction of perpendicular from a point to a line
To draw a perpendicular from a point to a line, follow these steps:
- Let the line be
l
and the point beP
. - Place the compass needle at
P
and draw an arc that cuts the line at two pointsA
andB
. - With the compass set to the widest position, draw arcs above and below the line, starting at
A
andB
. - Mark the points of intersection of these arcs with
C
andD
. - Draw a line through
P
andC
D
. It is perpendicular to the linel
from pointP
.
5. Construction of an equilateral triangle
All sides of an equilateral triangle are of equal length. This simple construction is as follows:
- Draw a line segment
AB
which will be one side of the triangle. - Keeping the width of the compass equal to
AB
, place the pointer atA
and draw an arc. - Without changing the width, place the pointer on
B
and draw a second arc intersecting the first arc. - Label the point of intersection
C
. - Draw lines
AC
andBC
to construct triangleABC
.
These are just basic constructions, but mastering them will give you a way to create more complex geometric drawings and better understand the properties of geometric shapes. Enjoy practicing these constructions and see the precision and satisfaction that comes from progressing through these mathematical operations. Geometry taught through constructions provides a deeper and more intuitive understanding of mathematical principles.
Understanding these fundamental methods will improve your ability to see shapes and understand geometry. In practice, the compass is a valuable tool for accurate construction; learning to use it well is important for anyone wishing to better understand the art of construction in mathematics. Learning through construction not only applies to mathematics, but develops a disciplined way of looking at problem-solving in everyday life.
Summary
Basic geometric constructions allow us to create geometric shapes without the need for measurements. We have explored several constructions:
- Constructing a line segment
- Perpendicular bisector
- Angle bisector
- Perpendicular from a point to a line
- Equilateral triangle
Mastering these constructions lays the foundation for understanding geometric properties and relationships, rather than relying solely on measuring tools. These basics lend themselves to a deeper understanding of more advanced geometric concepts.
Practicing these skills requires patience and accuracy, it enhances your understanding of mathematical concepts and develops your logical thinking skills. Remember, the key to success in geometric constructions is practice, accuracy and patience.