Symmetry

Symmetry is a concept in mathematics that involves the balance and proportion of shapes or objects. A shape or object is symmetrical if it can be divided into two equal parts that are mirror images of each other. The line on which the shape or object can be divided is called the line of symmetry.

Types of Symmetry

There are several types of symmetry:

1. Line Symmetry: Also known as reflection symmetry, a shape has line symmetry if one half of the shape is the mirror image of the other half when folded along a line.
2. Rotational Symmetry: A shape has rotational symmetry if it can be rotated by some degree and still look the same at certain positions.
3. Point Symmetry: A shape has point symmetry if it looks the same when rotated by 180 degrees around a central point.

Examples of Symmetrical Shapes

Common examples of symmetrical shapes include:

• Circle: A circle has infinite lines of symmetry and has rotational symmetry of 360 degrees.
• Square: A square has 4 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of 90 degrees.
• Equilateral Triangle: An equilateral triangle has 3 lines of symmetry and rotational symmetry of 120 degrees.

Study Guide

When studying symmetry, it's important to understand the following key points:

1. Identify the line of symmetry in a given shape or object.
2. Determine the type of symmetry (line, rotational, or point) exhibited by a shape.
3. Practice identifying and drawing symmetrical shapes.
4. Understand the concept of reflection and how it relates to line symmetry.
5. Explore real-life examples of symmetry in art, nature, and architecture.

Remember to practice identifying different types of symmetry in various shapes to strengthen your understanding of this concept.

Good luck with your studies!