0
the slide rule, also known colloquially as a slipstick,is a mechanical analog computer. The slide rule is used primarily for multiplication and division, and also for "scientific" functions such as roots, logarithms and trigonometry, but is not normally used for addition or subtraction.
Slide rules come in a diverse range of styles and generally appear in a linear or circular form with a standardized set of markings (scales) essential to performing mathematical computations. Slide rules manufactured for specialized fields such as aviation orfinance typically feature additional scales that aid in calculations common to that field.
To give a sample of how the slide rule works, here are two simplified descriptions of how two numbers are multiplied on a slide rule using the A and B scales:
Multiplying 2x3: The line at the left end of the B scale, associated with the number 1, is placed at the first of the numbers being multiplied, 2, on the A scale, by moving the slide. We look up from the second number being multiplied on the B scale, 3, and find the number above it on the A scale is 6. When the result is to the left of the 1 in the middle of the A scale, the number of decimal places in the result is the sum of the number of decimal places in the multipliers, minus one. So in this case, the number of decimal places is 1.
Multiplying 3x4: The line at the left end of the B scale, associated with the number 1, is placed at the first of the numbers being multiplied, 3, on the A scale, by moving the slide. We look up from the second number being multiplied on the B scale, 4, and find the number above it on the A scale is 12. When the result is to the right of the 1 in the middle of the A scale, the number of decimal places in the result is the sum of the number of decimal places in the multipliers. So in this case, the number of decimal places is 2.
This might sound really complicated, but once you get the hang of it, it is easy. Unfortunately, it is not like riding a bike. Once you have learned, it is really easy to forget anyway.
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
What is the 7x7 rule?
the 7x7 rule means theres no more then 7 bullets on a slide and no more then 7 sentences on a slide
How do you do 1394 divided by 36?
38.7222
What mathematical instrument was before the pocket calculator?
the slide rule
What type of meter shows reading on a non-linear scale?
-- analog ohm-meter -- analog power meter -- analog audio level meter -- slide-rule multiplication/division scales -- slide-rule tangent/cotangent scales -- analog tuning dial on an AM radio
Can a cube roll and slide?
slide
How many people would use a slide rule in the year 2010?
Very few people used a slide rule in 2010. Calculators are much easier to use.
Why don't you use a slide rule?
Most people don't use slide rules because pocket calculators are easier to use without special training, have more functionality, are less expensive, and are more accurate. But I still use a slide rule anyway. That is because I am an old frump.
When would one use the slide rule?
A slide rule is used for multiplication and division and it can also be used for trigonometry. It can also be used in money fields such as accounting.
Why do you not use a a slide rule anymore?
The reason most people do not use slide rules is that pocket calculators are just as fast, intuitively more obvious, and more accurate. Nonetheless, actually, I do use a slide rule. But I only do this to show off. It looks sort of magical to the uninitiated.
When did Oughtred invent the slide rule?
William Ougthered invent Slide Rule in 1622!
What caused the slide rule to fade from use?
The slide rule faded from use primarily due to the advent of electronic calculators in the 1970s. These calculators were more convenient, accurate, and user-friendly than the slide rule. Additionally, the slide rule required significant skill and familiarity to use effectively, which made it less practical for the average user.
When was the slide rule invented?
AnswerThe slide rule was invented by William Oughtred in 1625. AnswerWe do not know the precise year. A circular slide rule was invented by William Oughtred some time about 1620, and a design of a similar slide rule by Delamain was printed in about 1630. The straight slide rule seems to have been invented later, some time around 1650.
What has the author H W Leach written?
H. W. Leach has written: 'The slide rule and its use in problem solving [by] George C. Beakley [and] H.W. Leach' -- subject(s): Slide-rule
What has the author John Jesse Clark written?
John Jesse Clark has written: 'The slide rule and logarithmic tables, including a ten-place table of logarithms' -- subject(s): Logarithms, Slide-rule 'The slide rule' -- subject(s): Slide-rule
What are the functions of a Oughtred's Slide?
Before the invention of the pocket or handheld calculator, the slide rule was a popular tool for calculations. William Oughtred made the first slide rule by inscribing logarithms on wood or ivory. The use of slide rules continued until about 1974, after which electronic calculators became more popular.
Does pi actually exist on a slide rule?
Yes, it is a point on the slide rule. It is exact and not a decimal number.
Who invented the slide rule in 1632?
The slide rule was invented by William Oughtred some time about 1620 or 1625.
