What tool is used to draw circles and arcs?

Answer 1

The tool commonly used to draw circles and arcs is called a **compass**. Here are some details about it:

• **Compass**: This is a drawing instrument that consists of two legs, one with a pointed end to anchor the tool at the center of the circle or arc, and the other with a pencil or pen to draw the circle or arc. The distance between the legs can be adjusted to change the radius of the circle or arc being drawn.

Additionally, for more precise or larger scale drawings, other tools and devices might be used:

• **Beam Compass**: Used for drawing larger circles or arcs, it has a beam or rod with a sliding holder for the pencil or pen.

• **Protractor**: While not used to draw circles, a protractor is often used to measure angles and can assist in the construction of arcs.

• **Drafting Tools and Software**: In technical drawing and CAD (computer-aided design), software tools can be used to create precise circles and arcs digitally.

Answer 2

A compass (properly referred to as 'a pair of compasses') is the two-legged tool which which has a sharp point on one leg and a place to hold a pencil on the other leg. The pointed leg is used as the centre of a circle or arc.