Part 1: Cross Sections

Adam Coyer, May 23, 2025

In-class exploration on cross sections of common 3-dimensional shapes.


  • 1. (1) Cross Sections of a Prism
  • 2. (2) Cross Sections of a Pyramid
  • 3. (3) Cross Sections of a Sphere
  • 4. (4) Cross Sections of a Cone
  • 5. (5) Cross Sections of a Cylinder

1.

(1) Cross Sections of a Prism

Create different types of cross sections by slicing a rectangular prism with a plane.
Putting It All Together
[i]Answer these open ended questions on your own or with others to form deeper math connections. [/i]
List the possible shapes of a cross section of a rectangular prism. Are there any unique shapes made by using the Explore option?
What are some characteristics that are the same for every cross section of a prism?
What do you notice about the shape of a cross section that is parallel to one of the faces of a rectangular prism?
Can this prism be made by "stacking" 2-dimensional shapes vertically? If so, describe the shape(s) needed to make this stacking happen.
– Adam Coyer, GeoGebra Content Team

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