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How to Divide a Circle With Two Lines

As you move from algebra to geometry in your mathematical studies, you begin to study shapes such as the circle. There are a few finite properties associated with a circle. By definition, it has 360 degrees. It is also a closed loop and the radius is an equal distance from the center to any point along that loop. Finally, if you divide the circumference of a circle by the diameter, you will always get the same number -- 3.142 -- which is Pi. This is known as the pythagorean theorem. In your geometry studies, there might be a time where you need to divide a circle with two lines before calculating information about the sectors you have formed.

Ruler
Pen or pencil
Circle

Instructions

- 1
  Start at one point on the circle and place your writing instrument on the border of it.
- 2
  Draw a line completely across the circle until you reach the border on the other side. Use your ruler as a guide so that you have drawn a straight line. The circle has been divided into two parts that may or may not be equal.
- 3
  Repeat Steps 1 and 2 drawing a second line. If you intersect the first line you drew, you will have four sectors that may or may not be equal. If you choose not to intersect that line, then you will have three parts of the circle that may or may not be equal. Note that the mathematical definition of a line does not allow it to curve or bend. It remains straight to infinity. Therefore there is no technical way to divide the circle into less than three or more than four parts using just two lines.

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