Missing square puzzle

High school (ages 12+)
Mathematics & Numbers

Name:

Date:

Step 1 · Read the article

Open the article and read it at the level above. Then answer the questions below in your own words.

https://smallwhale.org/articles/missing-square-puzzle

Write what each word means, using the article.

Do not copy the article. Write two things you learned, the way you would explain them to a friend.

Answers below are taken from the article’s stored facts, so they match what the student read.

1. What is the classification?Geometric paradox and optical illusion
2. Why does a square disappear in the picture?The triangles in the picture are not true straight triangles; their hypotenuses are made of many small slanted pieces that form a slightly bent line. Because of this bend, the area inside the triangle is a little different, making it look like a square is missing.
3. How does the puzzle show that pictures can be tricky?Even though the puzzle pieces are the same in both pictures, the bent lines change the area a tiny bit. This shows that our eyes can be fooled and that we need careful math to know the true area.

Geometric Paradox: A situation in geometry that appears contradictory but may be resolved through rigorous analysis.
Axiom: A fundamental principle or statement accepted as true without proof, forming the basis of a system.
Hypotenuse: The longest side of a right-angled triangle, opposite the right angle.