FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which of the following is an example of a polygon?

1. A circle

2. A triangle

3. A freehand drawing

4. A 3D cube

The correct answer is: A triangle

The example of a polygon is a triangle because it consists of three straight sides and three angles. Polygons are defined as closed, two-dimensional shapes that are formed by connecting a finite number of straight line segments. Since a triangle meets all the criteria of being a polygon—with its straight edges and closed figure—it is correctly identified as such. In contrast, a circle does not qualify as a polygon because it has no straight edges; it is a curved shape and is considered a non-polygonal figure. A freehand drawing lacks the strict structural qualities needed to be classified as a polygon, often being irregular and not adhering to the properties of straight lines connecting to form a closed shape. Lastly, a 3D cube is a three-dimensional figure and does not fit the definition of a polygon, which is specifically a flat, two-dimensional shape. Hence, the triangle stands out as the correct example of a polygon.