This document describes how to cut a straight line equal to a lesser line from a greater line using a compass and straightedge. It involves placing the lesser line at one end of the greater line, drawing a circle using that point as the center and the lesser line as the radius, and then the point where the circle intersects the greater line is the required length to cut off.

1. Proposition -3
Raman Choubay

2. Proposition -2•For two given unequal straight-lines,
to cut off from the greater a straight-
line equal to the lesser.

3. Given: Let AB and C be the two given unequal straight-lines,
of which let the greater be AB.
So it is required to cut off a straight-line equal to the lesser C from
the greater AB

4. Construction
Let the line AD, equal to the straight-line C, have been placed at point A
D
The circle DEF have been drawn
with center A and radius AD
E
F
AE is required length