Geometry is the branch of mathematics that is concerned with the properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids. H.M.S Coxeter succinctly described Geometry as:
“Geometry is perhaps the most elementary of the sciences that enable man, by purely intellectual processes, to make predictions (based on observation) about physical world. The power of geometry, in the sense of accuracy and utility of these deductions, is impressive, and has been a powerful motivation for the study of logic in geometry.”
There is very little doubt that Geometry is more than just a science or a study of objects, it’s an art in itself that has thrived since the golden days of Euclid. In fact, the biggest development in the field of geometry -- or even mathematics for that matter -- came when Euclid published his renowned treatise on Mathematics known as Euclid’s Elements. And since then, Geometry has become a passion and an art for many people, making it one of the most important sections in Mathematics.
If you are interested about Geometry and are a Linux users, there are some great software applications you can install to help you with your passion. Here’s a list of the best Geometry software for Linux:
KSeg Geometry Sketchpad
KSeg is an open-source application that allows you to create geometrical constructions using your mouse and keyboard in the same fashion as you would do with a compass and a straight edge. The software is easy to use and learning it isn’t that difficult either. You can create points on the page with right-mouse button clicks and then use those points to form circles, segments, lines, or other geometrical objects.
Kig
A part of the KDE Education Module, Kig is a free interactive geometric construction tool. Once installed, students will be able to draw and explore mathematical figures and concepts simply using the computer. One of the best things about this application is that it allows importing and exporting of files in various formats. The main formats include SVG, Cabri, Dr. Geo, KGeo, KSeg, and XFig.
OpenEuclide
OpenEuclide is an open-source software that makes it possible to learn 2D geometry while enjoying the process. The app allows you to trace all kinds of figures and then modify them according to your requirements. OpenEuclide is created for educational and modelling purposes, and being free, it can be used in schools as well. The tool supports two languages: English and French.
CaRMetal
Based on the Compass and Ruler (CaR) project, CaRMetal is another great interactive geometry tool for Linux. It allows you to create complicated constructions without much effort making it a great tool for your mathematical needs. What’s more, CaRMetal also supports macros thus allowing you to do more complex constructions effortlessly.
Geomview
Geomview is an interactive geometry application for displaying constructions in hyperbolic, spherical and Euclidean space. One of the great things about Geomview is that it allows multiple independently controllable cameras. Thus, you get an interactive control for motion, appearances, snapshots and more. Geomview is purely a geometry viewer program designed to allow users to view and study geometric constructions more closely. For making constructions, though, you’d have to choose from any of the aforementioned construction apps.
GeoGebra
Geogebra, a dynamic geometry system, allows users to do constructions with points, vectors, segments, lines, conic sections, and make changes to them dynamically. Furthermore, there is also support for elementary calculus-based tools allowing you to make even more complex calculations. One of the best features of this app is that it allows users to export their constructions as interactive applets for web pages.
Written by: Abhishek, a regular TechSource contributor and a long-time FOSS advocate.
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