FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which of the following shapes is not a space figure?

1. A square

2. A cone

3. A sphere

4. A prism

The correct answer is: A square

A square is considered a two-dimensional shape, which is defined by its length and width, existing only in a flat plane. In contrast, a cone, sphere, and prism are all three-dimensional figures, meaning they have length, width, and height, occupying space in three dimensions. The cone has a circular base and tapers to a single point; the sphere is a perfectly round three-dimensional shape with all points on its surface equidistant from its center; and the prism has two parallel bases connected by rectangular sides, which also exists in three dimensions. Each of these shapes demonstrates volume and surface area, whereas a square does not. This distinction is crucial in geometry, as understanding the difference between two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures helps in various applications, including spatial reasoning and calculations of area and volume.