Quadric Surfaces: Definition & Examples

  • Thread starter Thread starter qqchico
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Surfaces
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Quadric surfaces are defined as the graphs of second-degree equations in three variables: x, y, and z. The term "quadric" derives from the Latin word "quadratus," meaning square, which relates to the fact that these surfaces involve equations of the second power. This discussion clarifies the terminology, explaining that "quadratic" refers to the degree of the equation rather than the number of dimensions involved. Understanding this distinction is crucial for grasping the properties and classifications of quadric surfaces.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of second-degree equations in three variables
  • Familiarity with basic algebraic concepts
  • Knowledge of three-dimensional coordinate systems
  • Basic geometry, particularly properties of squares and surfaces
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the different types of quadric surfaces, such as ellipsoids and hyperboloids
  • Study the applications of quadric surfaces in computer graphics and modeling
  • Learn about the geometric properties of quadric surfaces
  • Explore the relationship between quadric surfaces and conic sections
USEFUL FOR

Students of mathematics, geometry enthusiasts, and professionals in fields such as computer graphics and engineering who seek to understand the properties and applications of quadric surfaces.

qqchico
Messages
28
Reaction score
0
why are they called quadric surfaces?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
well the definition in my book gives:

Q quadric surface is the graph of a second-degree equation in three variables x, y, and z. So i guess cause its the graph of a quadratic equation in 3-D.
 
I have that too but i don't think the teacher would give such an easy question. thanks a bunch.
 
Why are "quadratic equation" called "quadratic" when "quad" means 4?

Apparently because a square has 4 sides!

Extends, then to "quadric" surfaces, surfaces whose equations involve 2 nd power.
 

Similar threads

Replies
39
Views
2K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
1K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
664
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
9
Views
2K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
1K
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
1K