Question

what is the first step in constructing the perpendicular bisector of ab? use your straightedge to draw a line through the intersections of the arcs. place the point of the compass at point b, and open the compass so that it is greater than half of the distance from point b to point a. place the point of the compass at point a, and draw an arc between points a and b. place the point of the compass at point b, and draw an arc between points a and b.

Explanation:

To construct the perpendicular bisector of a line - segment \(AB\), the first step is to place the point of the compass at one of the endpoints. Placing the point of the compass at point \(A\) (or \(B\)) and drawing an arc is the starting action. The other steps follow this initial arc - drawing step.

Answer:

Place the point of the compass at point A, and draw an arc between points A and B.