Question

1. consider the following right triangular prism.

a. sketch the shape of a cross section that is formed when the prism is cut by a plane parallel to its bases.
b. sketch the shape of a cross section that is formed when the prism is cut by a plane perpendicular to its bases.

Explanation:

a. A plane parallel to the bases of a right triangular prism will intersect the prism in a shape identical to the triangular bases, as parallel planes produce congruent cross-sections in a prism.
b. A plane perpendicular to the triangular bases will slice through the three rectangular lateral faces of the prism, forming a rectangular cross-section.

Answer:

a. A right triangle (congruent to the prism's bases)
b. A rectangle