Symmetrical Shapes

Symmetrical shapes are discussed here in this topic.

Any object or shape which can be cut in two equal halves in such a way that both the parts are exactly the same is called symmetrical. The line which divides the shape is called the symmetry. So, if we place a mirror on the line of symmetry we can see the complete image.

When a symmetrical shape is folded along the line of symmetry, one half of the shape exactly lies over the other half which shows that one half of the shape is exactly the same as the other half.

There are many things around us which are symmetrical. Look at the following pictures and observe.

Symmetrical Figures

We know that in one symmetrical figure may have more than one line of symmetry.

Some symmetrical shapes have one line of symmetry, some have two and some have more than two, as shown below:

(i) Examples of the shapes having one-line symmetry:

One-Line Symmetry

One-Line Symmetry


Some shape may have two or more lines of symmetry like a circle has infinite lines of symmetry. A square has four lines of symmetry. A rectangle has two lines of symmetry.

(ii) Examples of the shapes having two - lines symmetry:

Two-Line Symmetry

Two – Lines Symmetry



(iii) Examples of the shapes having three - lines symmetry:

Three – Lines Symmetry

Three – Lines Symmetry



(iv) Examples of the shapes having four - lines symmetry:

Four – Lines Symmetry

Four – Lines Symmetry



(v) Examples of the shapes having many - lines symmetry:

Many – Lines Symmetry

Many – Lines Symmetry


The line which divides the shape into two equal parts from top to bottom is called the vertical line of symmetry.

Vertical Line of Symmetry

 Some objects have a horizontal line of symmetry which divides the shape into equal parts from left to right side.

Horizontal Line of Symmetry


Thus we may conclude that;

(i) Some shapes have no line of symmetry,

(ii) some have one line of symmetry,

(iii) some have two,

(iv) some have three and

(v) some have many lines of symmetry.

A circle has innumerable lines of symmetry that pass through its centre,


The knowledge of symmetrical shapes and lines of symmetry is very useful for making symmetrical designs.

You might like these

Related Concepts on Geometry - Simple Shapes & Circle

Simple Closed Curves

Polygon

Different Types of Polygons

Angle

Triangle

Quadrilateral

Circle Math

Line Symmetry

Symmetrical Shapes







4th Grade Math Activities

From Symmetrical Shapes to HOME PAGE


New! Comments

Have your say about what you just read! Leave me a comment in the box below. Ask a Question or Answer a Question.



Didn't find what you were looking for? Or want to know more information about Math Only Math. Use this Google Search to find what you need.



Share this page: What’s this?