The shape that results from cutting through a three-dimensional object with a plane. It reveals the internal structure and two-dimensional profile of the object at the point of intersection.
From Latin 'crux' meaning 'cross' and 'sectio' meaning 'cutting'. The mathematical concept emerged in the 17th century with the development of analytical geometry, particularly in the work of Descartes and others studying conic sections.
Cross-sections are mathematics' way of performing surgery on shapes! When you slice an orange, you're creating cross-sections that reveal the beautiful radial symmetry inside - the same principle that lets doctors see inside your body with CT scans and engineers design airplane wings.
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