A perfect arch is measured by comparing its height to its base width; the height should be exactly half the width of the base. Here's a breakdown of the process:
Steps to Determine if an Arch is "Perfect"
To assess whether an arch qualifies as "perfect," follow these simple steps:
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Measure the Base Width: Determine the width of the arch opening at its base, measuring from one side to the other. This is the widest point within the arch's opening.
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Measure the Height: Find the highest point inside the arch opening and measure the vertical distance from the base line to this point. This is usually at the center.
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Compare Height to Width: A "perfect" arch has a height that is precisely half of its base width.
Example
Let's say you measure an arch and find:
- Base Width: 10 feet
- Height: 5 feet
In this case, the arch is considered "perfect" because 5 feet (height) is half of 10 feet (base width).
What if the Height Isn't Half the Width?
If the height of the arch isn't half the width, it isn't considered a "perfect" arch. It could be a flatter arch (height less than half the width) or a more pointed arch (height greater than half the width). While these other types of arches are still aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound, they don't meet the specific definition of a "perfect" arch based on these simple measurements.
In summary, measuring a "perfect" arch involves determining the base width and height, and confirming that the height is equal to half the base width.
