A ‘compass’ is used to draw:
Circle
Understanding the Use of a Compass in Geometry
A compass is a fundamental tool used in geometry and technical drawing. It typically consists of two arms, one with a point and the other with a pencil or pen holder, joined by a hinge. This design allows it to draw arcs and circles of varying radii.
Analysing What a Compass Draws
Let's examine the given options to determine what a compass is used to draw:
- Circle: A compass is specifically designed to draw circles. By fixing one arm (the point) at the center and rotating the other arm (with the pencil) around it, a perfectly round shape, which is a circle, is created.
- Rectangle: A rectangle is a four-sided polygon with four right angles. Drawing a rectangle requires straight lines and right angles, typically done using tools like a ruler (straightedge) and a protractor or a set square, not primarily a compass.
- Triangle: A triangle is a three-sided polygon. Drawing a triangle involves straight lines, which are drawn using a ruler. While a compass can be used in certain triangle constructions (like constructing an equilateral triangle or transferring lengths), its primary function is not drawing the straight sides of a general triangle.
- Straight line: A straight line is drawn using a ruler or a straightedge. A compass, by its nature of pivoting around a fixed point, is designed for curves (arcs and circles), not straight lines.
Based on the function and design of a compass, its primary use is to draw circles.
Conclusion on Compass Usage
The geometric tool known as a compass is used to create arcs and complete circles by maintaining a constant distance (radius) from a central point. Therefore, among the given options, the shape drawn by a compass is a circle.
The correct answer is Circle.
| Geometric Tool | Primary Shapes/Figures Drawn |
|---|---|
| Compass | Circles, Arcs |
| Ruler (Straightedge) | Straight lines, Line segments |
| Protractor | Angles, Measuring angles |
| Set Square | Right angles, Parallel lines, Specific angles (45°, 30°, 60°) |
Revision Table: Geometry Tools & Uses
| Tool | Common Use |
|---|---|
| Compass | Drawing circles and arcs with a specific radius. |
| Ruler | Drawing and measuring straight lines. |
| Protractor | Measuring and drawing angles. |
Additional Information: Exploring Compass Applications
Beyond simply drawing circles, a compass is crucial in various geometric constructions, such as:
- Constructing an equilateral triangle.
- Bisecting a line segment.
- Bisecting an angle.
- Constructing a perpendicular line to a given line from a point.
- Transferring lengths from one part of a drawing to another.
These constructions often involve drawing arcs and finding points of intersection, highlighting the fundamental role of the compass in classical geometry problems.
Similar Questions
- Which one of the following is the largest source of natural energy to humans?
What happens to the ammeter reading when the length of the wire is doubled?
The study of human evolution indicates that all of us belong to a single species that evolved in ________.
According to National AIDS Control Organisation, almost 50% of new HIV infections are taking place in the age group of:
A ______ map converts color intensity or grayscale information to heights to give the appearance that features are raised above the surface, like embossed letters.
_________ protection must be worn whenever noise levels exceed the noise exposure standard.
Safety boots or shoes must be worn in designated areas to protect your _______ from falling objects.
The ratio of the shorter side of an A4 sheet to the longer side of an A3 sheet is ______.
Where is the "title block" usually made?
Which type of pencil has the hardest graphite lead?
Important Questions from Miscellaneous
Read the given figure and find the region representing persons who are educated and employed but not confirmed in job.
The magazine in which Mahatma Gandhi mentioned what he wanted the Constitution to do is:
Which gas shields the surface of the earth from ultraviolet radiation from the sun?
Which event is marked as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO?
Who has been conferred with the rank of the Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2018?
