SOLUTION: Mateo is constructing an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle with center P. He draws the diameter of the circle through center P using a straight edge. Next he opens his com

Algebra ->  Triangles -> SOLUTION: Mateo is constructing an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle with center P. He draws the diameter of the circle through center P using a straight edge. Next he opens his com      Log On


   

Question 1010203: Mateo is constructing an equilateral triangle inscribed in a circle with center P. He draws the diameter of the circle through center P using a straight edge. Next he opens his compass to a width equivalent to the radius of the circle. What is his next step?
A. Place the point of the compass on the edge of the circle and mark off two arcs.
B. Place the point of the compass on the center of the circle and mark off arcs to the left and right.
C. Place the point of the compass on the edge of the circle and mark off arcs all the way around.
D. Place the point of the compass in one of the locations where the diameter intersects the circumference and mark off arcs on either side.
Answer by mathmate(429) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!

Question:
Construction of an equilateral triangle inscribed in a given circle with a diameter already constructed.

Solution:
Let the given diameter be segment AB through centre P.
Place the compass, set to the radius PB, at B and draw two little arcs that intersect the circumference of the circle at C and D.
Then Triangle ACD will be an equilateral triangle inscribed in the given circle.