A diagonal scale is a type of scale used for measuring and representing small
divisions of units, allowing precise measurements up to the third decimal place. It
uses a combination of horizontal lines, vertical lines, and diagonals to subdivide
the smallest main unit into finer divisions.
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Principle of the Diagonal Scale
The diagonal scale works on the principle of similar triangles.
By dividing a small unit into further parts using diagonals, precise measurements
can be made.
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Steps to Draw a Diagonal Scale
1. Understand the Requirements
Determine the units and sub-units to be represented (e.g., meters, decimeters, and
centimeters).
Decide the maximum length to be measured using the scale.
2. Draw the Base Line
Draw a horizontal line (the base line) representing the main scale.
Divide this line into equal segments, each representing the primary unit (e.g.,
meters).
3. Mark Sub-Divisions
Divide each segment of the main scale into smaller divisions to represent sub-units
(e.g., decimeters). Label them accordingly.
4. Draw Vertical Lines
From each division on the main scale, draw vertical lines upwards.
The height of these vertical lines represents the smallest sub-unit (e.g., 1
decimeter).
5. Divide the First Vertical Line
Subdivide the first vertical line into equal parts. The number of parts should
match the number of further sub-divisions required (e.g., centimeters in a
decimeter).
6. Draw Diagonal Lines
From the base of each small division on the first vertical line, draw diagonal
lines to the corresponding points on the next vertical line.
These diagonals allow you to measure fractional parts of the smallest sub-unit.
7. Label the Scale
Label the main units (e.g., 1 m, 2 m) and the sub-divisions (e.g., 0.1 m, 0.2 m).
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Example: Drawing a Diagonal Scale to Measure 1 Meter (Least Count: 1 cm)
1. Units to Measure: Meters, decimeters, centimeters.
2. Main Scale: Draw a horizontal line 10 cm long to represent 1 meter. Divide it
into 10 equal parts (each part = 1 decimeter).
3. Vertical Lines: Draw vertical lines 5 cm high from each division on the main
scale.
4. Subdivide the First Vertical Line: Divide the first vertical line into 10 equal
parts (each part = 1 cm).
5. Draw Diagonal Lines: From the base of each small division on the first vertical
line, draw diagonal lines to the corresponding divisions on the second vertical
line.
6. Label the Scale: Write the units (1 m, 2 m, etc.) and smaller sub-units (e.g.,
0.1 m, 0.2 m).
This scale can now measure lengths precisely up to 1 cm.