What is the primary function of a protractor in engineering and design?

The primary function of a protractor in engineering and design is to measure angles. Protractors are specifically designed for this purpose, allowing users to determine the size of an angle in degrees. This is crucial in various applications, such as drafting, constructing, and designing geometric shapes, as accurate angle measurement directly impacts the functionality and aesthetics of the final product.

While it is true that protractors can support the drafting of precise designs through the accurate measurement of angles, their main and essential purpose is to quantify angles themselves. Other options, such as calculating surface area or weighing materials, fall outside the scope of a protractor’s capabilities, as they involve different tools and techniques specific to those tasks.