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Cross Section

Definition Of Cross Section

The plane figure obtained by the intersection of a solid by a plane is called as Cross-section.

More About Cross section

The figure obtained in the cross-section depends on the orientation of the plane cutting it.

Video Examples: Identify Cross Sections

Example of Cross section

 example of Cross section

In Figure 1 the prism is cut by a plane, which is parallel to the base. So, the intersection of the prism and the plane is a square cross-section. In Figure 2 the prism is cut by a plane, which is perpendicular to the base. So, the intersection of the prism and the plane is a rectangular cross-section.

Solved Example on Cross section

Ques: Describe the cross-section of the given figure.

 example of Cross section

Choices:

A. square
B. isosceles triangle
C. sector of a circle
D. rectangle
Correct Answer: B

Solution:

Step 1: Cross-section is a diagram or drawing that shows features transected by a given plane.
Step 2: The figure given is a cone. Insert a plane vertically through it.
 example of Cross section
Step 3: The cross-section is an isosceles triangle.
 example of Cross section
Step 4: The base of the triangle is the diameter of the circular base of the cone.
Step 5: The height of the triangle is the height of the cone.