Correct option is A
The
slide rule is a mechanical analog device used primarily for
multiplication and division. It works on the principle of logarithms and allows for quick calculations by aligning scales on sliding parts. While it can also perform additional operations such as square roots, exponentials, and trigonometric functions, its main use is for basic arithmetic operations like multiplication and division.
Key features of the slide rule:
1. Uses logarithmic scales to simplify complex arithmetic calculations.
2. Primarily used for multiplication, division, and other calculations like roots and powers.
3. Commonly used before the advent of electronic calculators.
4. Cannot perform direct addition or subtraction.
Hence, the correct answer is (a) Multiplication and division.
Information Booster:
1.
Slide rule: An analog computational device used widely before the development of modern calculators.
2. Functions include:
· Multiplication and division (primary use).
· Finding square roots and cube roots.
· Calculating logarithms and exponentials.
3. Used in engineering, navigation, and science for quick calculations.
4. Limited by its inability to perform addition or subtraction directly.
Additional Information:
·
(a) Multiplication and division:
Correct, as the slide rule's primary purpose is to perform these operations using logarithmic scales.
·
(b) Angle measurement:
Incorrect, as it does not measure angles but can perform trigonometric calculations.
·
(c) Make the shape smaller and larger:
Incorrect, as this relates to scaling in geometry, which the slide rule does not do.
·
(d) Measurement of angle of elevation:
Incorrect, as this requires tools like a theodolite or clinometer, not a slide rule.