Cross-sectional Shape

Definition

The cross-sectional shape refers to the two-dimensional figure obtained when slicing through a three-dimensional object perpendicular to its axis of revolution.

Analogy

Think about cutting through different layers of cake stacked on top of each other. Each slice you make represents one cross-sectional shape, showing you how the cake's interior changes from layer to layer.

Related terms

Axisymmetric Shape: An axisymmetric shape possesses symmetry about an axis, meaning that if you rotate it around its central line (axis), it will look exactly the same at every angle.

Volume by Cross-sections Method: This method involves finding volumes by integrating areas obtained from cross-sectional shapes along an interval or region.

Area Moment Of Inertia: Also known as second moment or mass moment, this property measures how resistant an object is to changes in its rotational motion. It depends on the shape and distribution of mass within an object.