Construct a 60˚Angle by Constructing An Equilateral Triangle

We now construct a 60˚ angle by constructing an equilateral triangle. Recall that the angles in an equilateral triangle are 60˚.

Go through the steps below to construct an equilateral triangle. Pick any length for a side of the equilateral triangle.

Example :

Construct = 60˚.

Solution:

Step 1 : Mark the point B on the line.

Step 2 : Stretch the compasses to any width. Put the sharp end of the compasses at point B and draw an arc on the line. Label the point where the arc intersects the line as point C.

Step 3: While keeping the sharp end of the compasses at point B, move the compasses away from C and draw a second arc above the line about mid-way between points B and C.

Step 4: Without changing the width of the compasses, place the sharp end of the compasses at point C and draw an arc to intersect the second arc.

Step 5 : Draw a line from point B to the point of intersection of the 2 arcs. Label the angle 60˚.

The following video shows how to construct an equilateral triangle and bisect an angle.

This video shows how to construct a 60 degree angle using only a compass and straight edge.

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