C.a.R. (Compass and Ruler) is a dynamic geometry program designed for constructing and exploring mathematical figures. It simulates traditional compass-and-straightedge constructions while providing interactive tools that go beyond what is possible on paper.
Users can construct points, lines, circles and more complex figures, then move selected points to observe how dependent objects respond. This makes it particularly useful for investigating relationships between geometric objects and checking conjectures.
The program is intended for use in schools and universities, offering tools for both elementary constructions and more advanced mathematical investigations. Teachers can prepare interactive examples, while students can experiment with geometric properties and discover patterns.
C.a.R. also supports mathematical functions, curves, animations and macro-constructions. These capabilities allow users to create reusable operations and explore geometric ideas beyond conventional Euclidean constructions.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Interactive compass-and-ruler constructions using points, lines and circles.
- Move basic construction points while preserving dependent relationships.
- Track the movement of points to investigate geometric loci.
- Create reusable macros for complex geometric constructions.
- Animated constructions for demonstrating mathematical relationships.
- Tools for calculations, mathematical expressions, curves and functions.
- Support for geometric transformations and advanced constructions.
- Explore elliptic and hyperbolic geometry.
- Customisable colours, labels and object visibility.
- Hide intermediate construction steps to simplify complex figures.
- Export mathematical diagrams in several graphical formats.
- Export interactive geometry material for educational use.
- Save constructions in an XML-based document format.
- Multilingual interface and built-in help facilities.
- Cross-platform support – runs on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
Website: sourceforge.net/projects/zirkel
Support:
Developer: René Grothmann
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
C.a.R. is written in Java. Learn Java with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Geometry Software | |
|---|---|
| Kig | KDE4 software for exploring geometric constructions |
| Dr. Geo | Interactive geometry software |
| SINGULAR | Commutative algebra system for polynomial computations |
| Macaulay2 | Supporting research in algebraic geometry and commutative algebra |
| polymake | Research in polyhedral geometry |
| SnapPy | Investigate the topology and hyperbolic geometry of 3-manifolds |
| C.a.R. | Dynamic geometry program for use in schools and universities |
| MathMod | Plot 3D surfaces using implicit and parametric equations |
| GCLC | Create geometric illustrations and prove geometry theorems |
| Geometria | Interactive software for creating and solving problems in 3D gemoetry |
| JGEX | Construct, explore and prove geometry theorems |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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