Protractor facts for kids
A protractor is a cool tool that helps you measure angles. Think of angles as the "corners" or "openings" between two lines. Protractors usually have marks all around them that show you how many degrees an angle has. Degrees are like units for measuring angles, just like centimeters measure length.
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What is a Protractor?
Protractors are super useful in mathematics, engineering, and even art. They help you draw precise angles or check if an angle is exactly what it should be. You might use one in your geometry class to measure the angles of a triangle or to draw a perfect circle.
How Do Protractors Work?
Most protractors are shaped like a half-circle (180 degrees) or a full circle (360 degrees). They have tiny lines, called markings, along their curved edge. These markings show you the degrees. To measure an angle, you line up the protractor's center point with the corner of your angle. Then, you read the number where one of the angle's lines crosses the protractor's scale.
Different Kinds of Protractors
There are many types of protractors, each designed for specific tasks.
Simple Protractors
The most common type is the half-circle protractor. It measures angles up to 180 degrees. Full-circle protractors can measure angles up to 360 degrees. These are often made of clear plastic, so you can see your lines underneath.
Bevel Protractors
Some protractors are made of metal and are more sturdy. These are called bevel protractors. They are often used in workshops or by engineers. They can measure angles very accurately, sometimes even small fractions of a degree.
Universal Bevel Protractors
A universal bevel protractor is an advanced version. It has extra parts that can be adjusted. This allows it to measure angles in many different positions. It's a favorite tool for people who build things or work with machines.
Sailors and pilots use special protractors called navigational plotters. These tools help them measure directions and courses on maps. They are crucial for planning safe journeys.
Electronic Protractors
Modern technology has also given us electronic protractors. These digital tools show the angle measurement on a small screen. They are very easy to read and often more precise.
Where Are Protractors Used?
Protractors are used in many different fields:
- School: For geometry, drawing, and art projects.
- Engineering: To design parts for machines, buildings, and bridges.
- Architecture: To draw blueprints and ensure angles are correct in buildings.
- Navigation: By sailors and pilots to plot courses and directions.
- Carpentry: To cut wood at precise angles for furniture or house frames.
- Drafting: For making detailed technical drawings.
Protractors help people create accurate designs and build things correctly. They are simple but powerful tools!
Images for kids
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A half circle protractor marked in degrees (180°).
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A half-circle bevel protractor.
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A universal bevel protractor.
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A "Cras navigation plotter" double-protractor, in foreground, named after his inventor Jean Cras.
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A half circle protractor marked in degrees (180°).
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Electronic protractor.
See also
In Spanish: Transportador para niños
