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LATERAL EDGES

Lateral Edges

Definition Of Lateral Edges

The edges that form the lateral faces of a solid are called the Lateral Edges.

Example of Lateral Edges

 example of  Lateral Edges

 

As the above figure is a pentagonal prism, the base of the prism is a pentagon. There are 5 lateral faces and they are connected by 5 lateral edges. Hence, the solid has 5 lateral edges.

Video Examples: Lateral Edges


 

Solved Example on Lateral Edges

Ques: How many lateral edges are there in the figure shown? 


 example of  Lateral Edges

Choices:

A. 4
B. 7
C. 3 
D. 1 
Correct Answer: A

Solution:

Step 1: The lateral faces meet to form the lateral edges.
Step 2: In the given solid, there are 4 lateral faces and they are connected by 4 lateral edges.
Step 3: Hence, there are 4 lateral edges in the given solid.

Quick Summary

  • Lateral edges are the edges where lateral faces meet.
  • The number of lateral edges depends on the type of solid.
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🍎 Teacher Insights

Use physical models to help students visualize lateral edges.

🎓 Prerequisites

  • Basic understanding of geometric shapes
  • Knowledge of edges and faces of solids

Check Your Knowledge

Q1: How many lateral edges does a triangular prism have?

Q2: A pentagonal prism has how many lateral edges?

Q3: How many lateral edges are in the figure shown? (Assume a quadrilaterial prism)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between a lateral edge and a base edge?
A: Lateral edges connect the lateral faces, while base edges form the base of the solid.

Q: How do I find the number of lateral edges in a prism?
A: The number of lateral edges in a prism is equal to the number of sides of its base.

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