The shape with six sides is known as a hexagon. This name is derived from the Greek word ‘hex’, which means six, paired with ‘gonia’, meaning angle. Thus, hexagons are polygons that consist of six straight sides and six angles.
Hexagons can be found in various forms and structures in both nature and human-made designs. For example, they are famously recognized in beehives, where honeybees construct hexagonal wax cells to efficiently store honey and pollen.
In geometry, a regular hexagon has all sides and angles equal, leading to a symmetric and aesthetically pleasing shape. The formula for calculating the interior angles of a hexagon is:
- Each interior angle of a regular hexagon: 120 degrees.
- Total interior angle sum: 720 degrees.
Moreover, hexagons are not only significant in mathematics and nature; they also appear in various fields such as architecture, design, and engineering. To sum up, hexagons are intriguing shapes that showcase both mathematical elegance and practical utility.