how do you decide whether to measure the inner or outer scale on a protractor

When using a protractor, you need to consider whether to measure the inner or outer scale depending on the specific situation or instructions provided. Here's a general framework for deciding:

1. Examine the object: Assess the shape or pattern you need to measure or draw an angle on. Look for lines or markings that indicate whether to use the inner or outer scale on the protractor.

2. Check the instructions: If you're following a set of instructions, make sure to read them carefully. Sometimes, the instructions explicitly mention whether to use the inner or outer scale.

3. Consider the angle type: Determine the type of angle you want to measure or draw. If it's an acute angle (less than 90 degrees), chances are you'll use the inner scale. However, if it's an obtuse angle (more than 90 degrees), you'll typically use the outer scale.

4. Position the protractor: Place the protractor over the angle you want to measure or draw, ensuring that the center hole is aligned with the vertex (corner) of the angle.

5. Align the baseline: Align the baseline (the straight line on the protractor) with one side of the angle, making sure it runs parallel with the edge.

6. Read the scale: For an acute angle, read the scale on the inner side of the baseline, noting the degree measurement at the other side of the angle. For an obtuse angle, read the scale on the outer side of the baseline.

Remember that different protractors may vary in design, so be sure to familiarize yourself with its features and any instructions provided with it.

when you say "if it's an acute angle" or "if it's an obtuse angle"

what do you mean by it? who are you referring to

I apologize for the confusion. By saying "if it's an acute angle" or "if it's an obtuse angle," I am referring to the specific angle you are trying to measure or draw using the protractor. So, "it" here means the angle itself that you want to work with. Depending on the nature of the angle (whether it is acute or obtuse), you can then choose whether to use the inner or outer scale on the protractor accordingly.

how can I tell if it's more than 90 or less than

To determine whether an angle is acute (less than 90 degrees) or obtuse (more than 90 degrees), you can visually analyze its appearance or measure its size.

Visual Analysis:
1. Identify the vertex (corner) of the angle.
2. Observe the two rays or lines that form the angle.
3. If the rays are relatively closer together and appear to "open up" towards each other, forming a sharp corner, it is likely an acute angle.
4. If the rays appear to be farther apart and "open up" away from each other, forming a wider corner, it is likely an obtuse angle.

Measurement Method:
1. Measure the angle by using the protractor.
2. Align the baseline of the protractor with one of the rays of the angle.
3. Observe the scale on the selected side (inner or outer) of the protractor as you measure the angle.
4. If the measurement is less than 90 degrees, it is an acute angle.
5. If the measurement is more than 90 degrees, it is an obtuse angle.

Remember, an angle exactly measuring 90 degrees is called a right angle.