Dropping a Perpendicular from a Given Point to a Line

Fig. 4- 3 Dropping a Perpendicular from a Given Point to a Line

Figure 4-3 shows a method of dropping a perpendicular from a given point to a line, using a compass. To drop a perpendicular from point P to AB, set the needlepoint of the compass at P and strike an arc intersecting AB at C and D. With C and D as centers and any radius larger than one-half of CD, strike arcs intersecting at E. A line from P through E is perpendicular to AB.

 

(Source: NAVEDTRA 14069, U.S. Navy)

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