California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) Math Practice Exam

What is a vertex in geometric terms?

1. A closed two-dimensional figure

2. A point where two lines or segments meet

3. A straight path that has a beginning and an endpoint

4. A three-dimensional space

The correct answer is: A point where two lines or segments meet

A vertex is defined as a point where two lines, line segments, or rays converge or meet. In geometric terms, it is a key concept, especially in the study of shapes and angles. For instance, in polygons, each corner is referred to as a vertex, and these points are where the sides of the shape converge. Understanding the concept of a vertex is crucial because it can help in the analysis of various geometric properties, such as finding the angles in a polygon or understanding the structure of three-dimensional shapes, where vertices are also seen at the points where edges intersect. The other choices, while related to geometric concepts, do not accurately describe a vertex. A closed two-dimensional figure is more indicative of shapes like triangles and squares, a straight path with a beginning and an endpoint refers to a line segment, and a three-dimensional space describes volume or area without specific regard to the points of intersection, which do not capture the definition of a vertex.