The concept of impossible constructions in mathematics draws in a unique interest by Mathematicians wanting to find answers that none have found before them. For the Greeks, some impossible constructions weren’t actually proven at the time to be impossible, but merely so far unachieved. For them, there was excitement in the idea that they might be the first one to do so, excitement that lay in discovery. There are a few impossible constructions in Greek mathematics that will be examined in this chapter
Most of geometry is based on two main constructions, circles and straight lines. In geometry, there are many different tools used for construction such as the compass, the straightedge, carpenter’s square, and mirrors. (Princeton) A compass is an instrument that is used to help draw circles. The two most well-known compasses are the modern compass and the collapsible compass. The straightedge is a tool that has no curves. It is used to draw straight line when knowing two points. (Princeton) The only
figures using a compass and straightedge. By: Daphne Scott I do think that it's important that students can still learn how to do geometry even in the old fashioned way. Even though a computer will automate a lot of the calculations and constructions for you, you still need to understand the geometric principles at work in order to use them. The computer is just a tool. You need to understand and be able to construct geometric figures by using a compass and a straightedge. Both the compass and the straightedge
Albrecht Dürer (1471 - 1528) was born May 21, 1471 in the city of Nuremberg, Germany. At the age of twelve Dürer became an apprentice of his father’s, a master goldsmith. Not only did he learn to shape the metal, but he also honed his skills of design and drawing. Dürer had drawn his first self-portrait at thirteen simply from his reflection in the mirror. In 1486, at age fifteen, Dürer decided to switch professions, becoming the apprentice for the town’s principle and most successful painter Michael