Mathematics Knowledge
In reviewing for the Mathematics Knowledge section of the ASVAB, I remind my ASVAB prep students of the importance of knowing the different shapes that can appear on the test. In my book, The ASVAB Tutor’s Mathematics Knowledge Study Guide, I review the names and formulas for the different shapes. Yesterday I presented a question about shapes. Geometry is a critical topic to know when preparing for the ASVAB.
This question is a geometry question that ask about parallelograms.
The question is:
Which is not a parallelogram?
- Square
- Rectangle
- Trapezoid
- Rhombus
Do you know the characteristics of a parallelogram?
A parallelogram has four sides.
All four answer choices are four-sided shapes so that feature does not help to eliminate any choices.
A parallelogram is a four-sided rectilinear figure with opposite sides parallel. Three of the choices fulfill those criteria.
A square is a four-sided shape with four equal sides, each angle equal to 90 degrees, and has two sets of opposite sides parallel.
A rectangle is four-sided shape with four straight sides and four 90 degree angles, and has two sets of opposite sides parallel.
A rhombus is a four-sided shape with opposite equal acute angles, opposite equal obtuse angles, four equal sides, and has two sets of opposite sides parallel.
A trapezoid is a four-sided shape with only one pair of parallel sides.
A square, rectangle, and rhombus are all types of parallelograms because they each have two pairs of parallel sides.
A trapezoid is not a parallelogram since it only has one pair of parallel sides.
The correct answer is Choice C. Trapezoid.
