FTCE General Knowledge Math Practice Test

Which space figure has a circular base and a single vertex?

1. Sphere

2. Cylinder

3. Pyramid

4. Cone

The correct answer is: Cone

A figure characterized by a circular base and a single vertex is known as a cone. In a cone, the circular base serves as the foundation, while the vertex is the point that is not part of the base, tapering up to meet the apex of the cone. This distinct feature sets it apart from other three-dimensional shapes. For instance, a sphere has no edges or vertices, thus lacking a base altogether, while a cylinder consists of two circular bases and does not converge at a single point. A pyramid, although it does have a single vertex, typically has a polygonal base rather than a circular one. Therefore, the defining attributes of a cone make it the appropriate choice for this question.