What is a Rectangle?
According to Euclidean plane geometry, a rectangle can be defined as a quadrilateral or a four-sided polygon with four right angles. As all the angles of a rectangle measure 90 degrees, it can also be referred to as an equiangular quadrilateral. The two sides at each corner or vertex meet at right angles. The differentiating point between a square and a rectangle is that all four sides of a square are equal while the opposite sides of a rectangle are equal. In this article, we will learn how to calculate the properties and perimeter of a rectangle.
Characteristics
- A parallelogram is a rectangle if at least one angle is a right angle.
- A rectangle is a parallelogram with diagonals of equal length.
- If the triangles formed by the diagonals of a parallelogram are congruent, then it forms a rectangle.
- A quadrilateral is a rectangle if and only if it is equiangular.
Properties of a Rectangle
- A rectangle has four vertices and four sides.
- The measure of each vertex angle is equal to 90 degrees.
- The opposite sides of a rectangle are equal and parallel.
- The diagonals of a rectangle bisect each other.
- The interior angles of a rectangle sum up to 360 degrees. As there are four angles and each measure 90 degrees, hence the total is 90 * 4 = 360.
Perimeter of a Rectangle
Perimeter is a measure that gives the total length of a 2D figure. Thus, the perimeter of a rectangle can be defined as the total distance that is covered by the boundaries of a rectangle. To calculate the perimeter of a rectangle, we have to sum up the lengths of all four sides. The perimeter of a rectangle is measured in unit length. We use meters as a standard unit to measure the perimeter of a rectangle. Let us now look at the formula to find the perimeter of a rectangle.
Suppose we have a rectangle PQRS and the lengths of the sides are given by p, q, p, q as opposite sides are equal
Perimeter = Sum of the lengths of all four sides
= p + q + p + q = 2p + 2q = 2 (p + q)
Example: Find the perimeter of a rectangle whose length is given by 5m and breadth is given by 6m.
Perimeter = 2 (p + q) = 2 (5 + 6) = 2 * 11 = 14m
How to Study Rectangles?
Rectangles form a vital part of the study of quadrilaterals and parallelograms. There are several theories associated with this particular shape, and understanding them can prove to be a pain point for kids; hence, it is a good idea to join an institution that believes in instilling robust mathematical concepts such as Cuemath. Cuemath is an online educational platform that provides kids with certified tutors who help them to achieve their goal of mastering mathematics. They make the learning process fun by using interactive worksheets, online workbooks, math games, puzzles, and other well-structured resources. Thus, you can avail yourself of the services of such an institution to learn more about rectangles.
Conclusion
The main goal for kids is to build an ironclad knowledge of mathematical concepts so that as they grow older, they can solve tough questions without getting flustered. Hopefully, this article gave you an insight into the different characteristics of a rectangle and how to calculate the perimeter of such a quadrilateral. You can either use the method listed above to study or come up with your own innovative ways so long as the learning experience is enjoyable.