Difference between 2D and 3D Shapes

2D shapes are flat like pictures on paper, with just length and breadth but not depth. On the other hand, 3D shapes are like real objects you can touch, with length, breadth, and depth. They take up space, like a toy that you can hold. Examples of 2D shapes include squares and circles. Cubes, spheres, and cuboids are some examples of 3D shapes.

Let’s understand the difference between two-dimensional) and three-dimensional shapes in maths and their properties with the help of examples.

Difference between 2D and 3D Shapes

Below is a table of differences between 2D Shapes and 3D Shapes: 

Properties	2D Shapes	3D Shapes
2D Vs 3D Shapes: Distinguishing Properties
Dimensions	A 2D shape has two dimensions- length and breadth.	A 3D shape has three dimensions- length, breadth and height.
Mathematical Axes used	X-axes, Y-axes.	X-axes, Y-axes and Z-axes.
View	2D shapes are used to give simple view of an object.	3D shapes are used to give architectural view of an object.
Edges visible	In 2D shapes, all the edges are clearly visible.	In 3D shapes, some of the edges are hidden.
Explanation	2D shapes are easy to explain due to the visibility of all its edges.	In 3D shapes, only outer dimensions can be explained.
Detailing	It is easy to draw details in 2D shapes.	Detailing becomes difficult in 3d shapes.
Examples	Circle, Square, Rectangle or any other polygon, etc.	Cylinder, Prism, tube, Cuboid, etc.
Drawing	It is easy to draw 2D Shapes.	3D shapes are complex in drawing.

2D Shapes Definition

2D shapes, or two-dimensional shapes, are flat and have only two dimensions: length and width. They’re like pictures or drawings on a piece of paper.

Common examples of 2D shapes include circles, squares, triangles, rectangles, and polygons.

These shapes are flat and don’t have any thickness or depth. When we draw them, they stay on the surface and can be measured by their sides and angles.

3D Shapes Definition

3D shapes, or three-dimensional shapes, are like real objects you can touch. Unlike flat 2D shapes, 3D shapes have three dimensions: length, width, and depth.

Let us think of things like cubes, spheres, cones, and pyramids. These shapes take up space in the real world.

For example, a ball is a 3D shape because it’s not flat like a picture. It has volume, and you can hold it. When you touch a 3D shape, you can feel its sides, and it’s not just a flat drawing on paper.

Conclusion- 2D and 3D Shapes Properties

Understanding 2D and 3D shapes is important in geometry and helps us describe things in the world around us. It is important to learn about the definition and difference between two-dimensional and three-dimensional shapes.