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)
