Cross Sections

Front

What is a cross section?

Back

A cross section is a two-dimensional shape obtained by cutting through a three-dimensional object.

Front

What shape is formed when a cylinder is cut perpendicular to its axis?

Back

A circle.

Front

What shape is formed when a rectangular prism is cut parallel to its base?

Back

A rectangle.

Front

What is the cross section of a cone when cut parallel to its base?

Back

A circle.

Front

What shape is formed when a triangular prism is cut parallel to its base?

Back

A triangle.

Front

What is the cross section of a sphere?

Back

A circle.

Front

How does the angle of the cut affect the shape of the cross section?

Back

The angle of the cut can change the shape of the cross section; for example, a vertical cut through a cylinder gives a rectangle, while a horizontal cut gives a circle.

Front

What is the cross section of a cube when cut diagonally?

Back

A triangle.

Front

What is the relationship between the cross section and the volume of a solid?

Back

The cross section can help determine the volume of a solid by integrating the area of the cross sections along the height of the solid.

Front

What is the cross section of a pyramid when cut parallel to its base?

Back

A smaller, similar polygon.