Looking to understand the difference between 2D and 3D shapes? This article offers a comprehensive breakdown of the fundamental differences between these two types of shapes. Whether you’re a beginner or simply looking to refresh your knowledge, this guide has everything you need to know about the basics of 2D and 3D shapes.
Geometry is the branch of mathematics that deals with the study of different shapes and their properties. Shapes (triangles, circles, spheres, cubes, etc.) are fundamental mathematical concepts with various applications in different domains, such as engineering, design, and architecture. In real life, we mainly deal with two types of shapes: 2D and 3D.
This article will explore the difference between 2D and 3D shapes based on different parameters.
So, let’s start!!
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Table of Content
- Difference Between 2D and 3D Shapes
- 2D Shape
- 3D Shape
- Properties of 2D and 3D Shape
- Example of 2D and 3D Shapes
- Key Difference Between 2D and 3D Shapes
What is the Difference Between 2D and 3D Shapes?
| Parameter | 2D Shape | 3D Shape |
| Definition | Flat shapes with only length and width. Also known as 2-dimensional shapes. | Solid shapes with length, width, and height. Also known as 3-dimensional shapes. |
| Coordinate Axis | X-axis and Y-axis | X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis |
| Faces | Only one face | Multiple faces |
| Edge | Straight edges | Straight and curved surfaces (edges) |
| Vertices | Have corners where two or more edges meet. | Have corners where three or more edges meet. |
| Measurement | Measures the area of the shape | Measures Volume and surface area of shapes |
| Use | to give a simple view of an object | To give an architectural view of an object |
| Real-World Application | 2D graphics, design, cartography. | 3D printing, architecture, engineering, product design, medical imaging, gaming and entertainment |
| Example | circle, square, triangles, | sphere, cubes, prism |
What is a 2D shape?
In geometry, the shape that has only two dimensions are known as 2D shapes. In simple terms, any geometrical shapes with only length and breadth that can be represented on a piece of paper are known as 2D shapes.
Some common 2D shapes are: Triangles, Squares, and Circle
2D shapes are classified into regular and irregular shapes:
Regular Shapes: 2D shapes with equal length sides and equal interior angles are regular shapes.
Example: Square, Equilateral triangle, Pentagon
Irregular Shape: 2D shapes with different sides and angles (interior) are irregular shapes.
Example: Rectangle, Isosceles Triangle
What is a 3D Shape?
In geometry, shape that has only three dimensions are known as 3D shapes. In simple terms, any geometrical shape with length, breadth, and height.
Dissimilar to 2D shapes, they are difficult to represent on a piece of paper. But these shapes exist in a physical world and can be touched, moved or rotated.
Some common 3D shapes are Spheres, Cubes, Cylinders, and Cones.
2d and 3d Shapes Properties
Properties of 2D Shapes
- Side: Only two sides, made up of straight lines.
- Perimeter: Total length of its sides, calculated by adding all the sides.
- Area: The amount of space any 2d shape takes up, calculated by multiplying length and width.
Properties of 3D Shapes:
The properties of 3D shapes can be described in terms of their face, edge, vertices, volume, and surface area.
- Faces: 3D shapes have faces made up of flat surfaces that vary depending on the shape.
- Surface Area: It is a sum of the areas of all its faces.
- Volume: Calculated by multiplying length, width, and height.
Example of 2D and 3D Shapes
Example of 2D Shapes
Example of 3D Shapes
What are the Key Difference Between 2D Shape and 3D Shapes?
- 2D shapes have only two dimensions (length and width), whereas 3D shapes have three dimensions (length, width, and height).
- 2D shapes can be represented on pieces of paper, while 3D shapes can exist in a physical world that can be touched, moved or removed.
- 3D shapes can have multiple faces, but 2d shapes can have only one.
- 2D shapes can be measured in terms of area, while 3D shapes are measured in terms of surface area and volume.
Conclusion
In this article, we have discussed the differences between 2D and 3D shapes. Hope you will like the article.
Happy Learning!!
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FAQs
What is a 2D shape?
A 2D shape is a flat, two-dimensional object that only has length and width, such as a square or a circle.
What is a 3D shape?
A 3D shape is a solid, three-dimensional object that has length, width, and depth, such as a cube or a sphere.
What is the main difference between 2D and 3D shapes?
The main difference between 2D and 3D shapes is that 2D shapes are flat and have only two dimensions (length and width), whereas 3D shapes are solid and have three dimensions (length, width, and depth).
How can you identify a 2D shape?
2D shape can be identified by looking for its defining features of length and width. Examples of 2D shapes include squares, rectangles, and triangles.
How can you identify a 3D shape?
3D shape can be identified by looking for its defining features of length, width, and depth. Examples of 3D shapes include cubes, spheres, and pyramids.
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Vikram has a Postgraduate degree in Applied Mathematics, with a keen interest in Data Science and Machine Learning. He has experience of 2+ years in content creation in Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, and Mac... Read Full Bio
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