FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is a defining characteristic of a cone?

1. A space figure with a square base and triangular sides

2. A figure having a circular base and a single vertex

3. A shape with two parallel bases that are congruent

4. A four-sided figure with triangular faces

The correct answer is: A figure having a circular base and a single vertex

A cone is defined as a three-dimensional geometric shape that has a circular base and converges to a single point called the vertex. This characteristic distinguishes it from other shapes, such as pyramids or cylinders. The circular base allows for a smooth transition in shape from the base to the apex, forming its unique tapering profile. Other options do not accurately describe the characteristics of a cone. For example, a space figure with a square base and triangular sides refers to a pyramid, not a cone. The description of a shape with two parallel bases that are congruent corresponds to a cylinder, while the definition of a four-sided figure with triangular faces describes a tetrahedron or another polyhedron, which again does not relate to a cone. Therefore, the defining feature of a cone being a figure with a circular base and a single vertex makes the correct answer accurate.