base (in plane geometry)

NOVEMBER 07, 2023

Base (in Plane Geometry) - Definition

In plane geometry, the term "base" refers to the bottom side or edge of a two-dimensional shape, such as a triangle or a parallelogram. It is the side or edge upon which the shape rests or is considered to be standing. The base is an essential element in various geometric calculations and is used to determine the area, perimeter, and other properties of the shape.

Knowledge Points of Base (in Plane Geometry)

Understanding the concept of base in plane geometry involves the following key points:

  1. Definition: The base is the bottom side or edge of a two-dimensional shape.
  2. Types of Shapes: The concept of base is commonly used in triangles, parallelograms, trapezoids, and other polygons.
  3. Importance: The base is crucial in determining the area, perimeter, height, and other properties of the shape.
  4. Measurement: The length or size of the base can vary depending on the specific shape and context.
  5. Naming: In some cases, the base may be explicitly labeled or named to distinguish it from other sides or edges.

Formula or Equation for Base (in Plane Geometry)

The base itself does not have a specific formula or equation, as it is simply a side or edge of a shape. However, the base is often used in conjunction with other formulas to calculate various geometric properties.

Application of the Base (in Plane Geometry) Formula or Equation

Since the base is not associated with a specific formula, its application depends on the specific problem or calculation being performed. For example, in finding the area of a triangle, the base is multiplied by the height and divided by 2. In a parallelogram, the base is multiplied by the height to determine the area.

Symbol for Base (in Plane Geometry)

There is no specific symbol used to represent the base in plane geometry. Instead, the base is typically referred to by its name or labeled with a lowercase letter, such as "b" or "base."

Methods for Base (in Plane Geometry)

The methods for working with the base in plane geometry vary depending on the shape being considered. Here are some common methods:

  1. Triangle: The base of a triangle is often used to calculate the area using the formula A = (base * height) / 2.
  2. Parallelogram: The base of a parallelogram is multiplied by the height to determine the area, i.e., A = base * height.
  3. Trapezoid: In a trapezoid, the bases are the parallel sides, and their lengths are used to calculate the area using the formula A = (base1 + base2) * height / 2.

Solved Examples on Base (in Plane Geometry)

Example 1: Find the area of a triangle with a base of 8 units and a height of 5 units. Solution: Using the formula A = (base * height) / 2, we have A = (8 * 5) / 2 = 20 square units.

Example 2: Calculate the area of a parallelogram with a base of 12 cm and a height of 7 cm. Solution: Since the area of a parallelogram is given by A = base * height, we have A = 12 cm * 7 cm = 84 square cm.

Practice Problems on Base (in Plane Geometry)

  1. Find the area of a triangle with a base of 10 units and a height of 6 units.
  2. Calculate the area of a trapezoid with bases measuring 5 cm and 8 cm, and a height of 4 cm.

FAQ on Base (in Plane Geometry)

Question: What is the base in plane geometry? Answer: In plane geometry, the base refers to the bottom side or edge of a two-dimensional shape, such as a triangle or a parallelogram. It is used to calculate various properties of the shape, such as area and perimeter.