Question

PLEASE HELP! What are the steps used to construct a hexagon inscribed in a circle using a straightedge and a compass? Drag the choices to order them correctly. Add a point on the circle. Use the circle's radius to set the width of the compass. Draw a circle using the compass. Place the point of the compass on the point most recently drawn on the circle. Create an arc with the compass that intersects the circle. Mark the intersection with a point. Connect consecutive points with the straightedge. Repeat the previous step 4 times.

Answer 1

An appropriate order for drawing a hexagon is ...

1. Use the circle's radius to set the width of the compass.
2. Draw a circle using the compass.
3. Add a point on the circle.
4. Place the point of the compass on the point most recently drawn on the circle.
5. Create an arc with the compass that intersects the circle.  
6. Mark the intersection with a point.
7. Repeat the previous step 4 times. [meaning steps 4–6]
8. Connect consecutive points with the straightedge.

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Comment on this construction

A lot of math is much more understandable if you have real-life experience with physical objects. In geometry, there is really no substitute for actually doing these steps using a compass and straightedge.

One of the things you learn by doing is that you need to be very precise when you're following the process. Otherwise, your hexagon comes out somewhat irregular.

You also find there are other methods (perhaps more accurate and requiring less work), involving symmetry and the center of the circle.