Flash Cards: Symmetry

Symmetry refers to a part or parts of a figure that repeat in a definite pattern.

A line of symmetry divides a figure into two parts that are mirror images of each other.

A butterfly and a square are examples of symmetrical shapes.

A shape has rotational symmetry if it looks the same after some rotation about a fixed point.

The order of rotational symmetry is the number of times a shape fits onto itself during a full rotation (360°).

The angle through which a figure can be rotated to look exactly the same is called the angle of rotational symmetry.

An irregular shape such as a cloud generally has no line of symmetry.

A square has four lines of symmetry: two diagonals and two axes through midpoints.

Fold the figure along a potential line of symmetry; if the two halves match, it is symmetrical.

A flower often displays symmetry in its petals and arrangements.

It occurs when one half of a figure mirrors the other half across a line.

Use techniques like folding paper or drawing designs that repeat evenly.

Assuming all shapes have at least one line of symmetry; some may not have any.

A circle has an infinite number of angles of symmetry.

Yes, regular polygons have lines of symmetry equal to their number of sides.

Folding paper with ink and pressing creates mirrored patterns.

The two halves do not match; thus, a rectangle does not have diagonal symmetry.

Look for repeating patterns and equal divisions around a central point.

Yes, symmetry is prevalent in nature, art, and architecture.