Geometry is an important part of mathematics that helps us understand shapes, sizes, and spaces. The word ‘geometry’ is derived from the ancient Greek words ‘geo,’ which means ‘Earth’ and ‘metron’, which means ‘measurement’. By understanding geometrical concepts, we can make sense of the world around us. Whether it is the area of rectangular fields, walls, plots, roofs, or roads, we use geometric formulas to calculate them almost every day. Some of the primary domains where we use concepts of geometry include construction, architecture, painting, designing, and planning. Let’s learn more in detail about the basics of geometry and its applications in our day-to-day life.
Geometry is the branch of math in which we study different types of shapes, their properties, figures & sizes. It involves concepts related to lines, angles, points, and planes. All the geometrical shapes are based on these basic geometrical concepts. We use geometry concepts to work with various 2D shapes (triangles, circles, and squares) and even 3D shapes like cubes and cones.
To measure area, perimeter, volume, and other attributes of geometrical figures, we use various formulas. These formulas help us easily calculate cost, quantity, and amount required for different works and activities. Some of the common 2-D and 3-D shapes with formulas are listed as under:
Shape |
Real-Life Example |
Area of Square |
Perimeter of Square |
Square |
A tile or checkerboard |
Side² |
4 X side |
Rectangle |
A door or book cover |
Area = Length X Breadth |
2(Length+Breadth) |
Circle |
A clock or pizza |
πr² |
2πr |
Triangle |
A slice of pie or a tent |
½(Base x Height) |
Side-1 + Side-2 + Side-3 |
Parallelogram |
Base x Height |
2 (Sum of opposite sides) |
|
Cube |
A dice or gift box |
6 * (side)² |
12 * side |
Sphere |
A soccer ball |
4πr² |
C = 2πr |
Why Is Geometry Important?
Along with its mathematical significance, geometry plays a huge role in our day-to-day life—it helps us every day in construction, navigation, architecture, gaming, and science.
Construction & Design: Architects and builders apply many concepts of geometry to plan, design, and build structures like houses, bridges, parks, hospitals, dams, and schools. They use various formulas to measure the length, area, volume, and other details for walls, windows, doors, roofs, etc. For example, for building a rectangular window or a triangular roof, we use geometric formulas.
Art and Drawing: Geometry is used in art too, as artists use geometric shapes to create beautiful patterns and designs for paintings. With the help of geometric concepts, it becomes easier to manage symmetry and maintain balance in drawings.
Animation: Graphic designers use geometry to design characters, motion, and special effects. The reason the shapes we see in games can move, spin, and feel alive is because of math. For example, when a character in a game is made using shapes like cubes or circles.
Navigation: When you read a map or use GPS, geometry helps you find the right direction and distance. For example, going from your house to the park in a straight line.
Sports and Games: Geometry is also used in playing sports. For example, when we pass a ball or kick a football, we use the concept of angles to aim the ball.
Problem: A rectangular desk that is 3 feet long and 2 feet wide. What is the area?
Solution:
To find the area of a rectangular desk, use the formula: Area = length × width.
Area of desk = 3×2 = 6 square feet.
So your desk takes up 6 square feet of space.
Problem: Find the volume of a cube with a side length of 5 cm.
Solution:
Volume of a cube = side length³
= 5 cm × 5 cm × 5 cm = 125 cm³.
A: Geometry means studying shapes, sizes, and how things fit together.
A: By learning geometry you get the knowledge used to draw, play sports, build, and even solve puzzles!
A: While 2D shapes are flat like paper, 3D shapes pop out like blocks. For example, cube, sphere, etc.
A: Perimeter is the distance around a shape. Like walking around a garden.
A: Area is the space inside a shape. Like how much carpet covers your room.
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