Should both legs of a compass be of equal length for accurate measurements?

For precise measurements when using a compass, both legs must be of equal length. This ensures that when the compass is used to draw arcs or circles, the distance from the center point to the pencil is consistently maintained. If one leg were longer than the other, the resulting arcs would be distorted, leading to inaccuracies in measuring distances or creating geometrical shapes.

Equal lengths allow for a balanced and symmetrical operation of the compass, which is critical in applications such as drafting, engineering, and plumbing. In plumbing, for instance, accurate measurements are crucial to ensuring that pipes fit correctly and systems function as required. Therefore, maintaining equal lengths in both legs of the compass is essential for achieving accurate and reliable results.