Using the Compass Tool: Ex. 3
DIRECTIONS:
You can also use the COMPASS tool to construct an EQUILATERAL TRIANGLE. Here's how:
1) Use the SEGMENT 
tool to construct a segment with endpoints A and B.
2) Select the COMPASS 
tool. Then select point A, then select point B.
(You should notice another circle appear. This circle has a radius = AB).
Click on point A.
3) Select the COMPASS tool again. This time, simply click on the segment itself.
Then click on point B.
4) Use the INTERSECT 
tool to plot the point(s) of intersection of the two circles you've just
constructed in steps (2) & (3).
5) Use the POLYGON 
tool to construct the triangle formed by A, B, & the point you constructed in
step (4).
tool to construct a segment with endpoints A and B.
2) Select the COMPASS tool. Then select point A, then select point B.
(You should notice another circle appear. This circle has a radius = AB).
Click on point A.
3) Select the COMPASS tool again. This time, simply click on the segment itself.
Then click on point B.
4) Use the INTERSECT tool to plot the point(s) of intersection of the two circles you've just
constructed in steps (2) & (3).
5) Use the POLYGON tool to construct the triangle formed by A, B, & the point you constructed in
step (4). 6)
Why is this triangle equilateral?
When you're done (or if you're unsure of something), feel free to check by watching the quick silent screencast below the applet.