Features

• All goniometers feature two arms attached to a fulcrum, or center. The arms adjust upward and downward to measure an angle.
  
  

Units

• Goniometers measure angles in terms of degrees. There are 360 degrees in a full circle.
  
  

Materials

• Goniometers are often constructed from metal, like stainless steel, or from plastic. A digital type of goniometer is also available for measuring energy waves.
  
  

Uses

• Doctors use goniometers to measure the range of motion of a joint, while geologists employ goniometers to study the crystal structure of minerals, which helps to identify them. Goniometers can also measure radio waves.
  
  

History

• The first rudimentary goniometer was created in 1780 by Arnould Carrangeot. Eilhard Mitscherlich developed the first precision goniometer in 1843.