Question

select the correct answer
when bisecting \\( \overline { a b } \\) using string, which step best describes what comes after securing the string at point a and then setting the string length to be a little more than half of \\( a b \\)?
a
b
a. make an arc above and below \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point a and another arc from point b.
b. make an arc above \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point a and another arc on \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point b.
c. make an arc on \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point a and another arc from point b.
d. make an arc above and below \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point a and another arc on \\( \overline { a b } \\) from point b.

Explanation:

When bisecting a line segment using string (similar to compass - and - straightedge construction), after setting the string length (radius) to a little more than half of the segment length and securing at one end (point A), the next step is to create arcs above and below the segment from point A. Then, without changing the string length (radius), secure the string at point B and create arcs above and below the segment. The intersection points of these arcs are used to draw the bisector. Option B, C, and D have incorrect arc - placement (putting arcs on the segment itself instead of above and below for a proper bisecting construction).

Answer:

A. Make an arc above and below \(\overline{AB}\) from point A and another arc from point B.