Geometry - Hexagon

Hexagon

Understanding the Hexagon: Definition, Properties, and Key Formulas

A hexagon is a six-sided polygon. A regular hexagon has six equal sides and six equal interior angles, each measuring 120°. Regular hexagons are highly symmetric and can be constructed from six equilateral triangles. They're commonly seen in nature (like honeycombs) and tiling patterns.

Hexagon

Key Properties of a Regular Hexagon

  • Number of sides \(N = 6\)
  • Each interior angle = \(120^\circ\)
  • Divisible into 6 equilateral triangles
  • Both a circumcircle and incircle can be drawn

Key Formulas for a Regular Hexagon

1. Perimeter \(P\):

Total distance around the hexagon:

\[ P = 6a \]

  • \(a\): Side length

2. Area \(A\):

The area of a regular hexagon can be calculated as:

\[ A = \frac{3\sqrt{3}}{2} a^2 \]

or, using the apothem \(r\):

\[ A = \frac{1}{2} P \times r = 3a \times r \]

  • \(r\): Apothem (distance from center to midpoint of a side)
  • \(a\): Side length

3. Apothem \(r\) and Circumradius \(R\):

\[ r = \frac{a\sqrt{3}}{2} \]

\[ R = a \]

Derived From:

The hexagon can be broken into 6 equilateral triangles. Hence:

\[ A = 6 \times \left( \frac{\sqrt{3}}{4} a^2 \right) = \frac{3\sqrt{3}}{2} a^2 \]

Applications of Hexagons

  • Nature: Seen in honeycombs and crystals due to efficient space-filling.
  • Tiling: Common in floor patterns and geometric art.
  • Science & Engineering: Hexagonal lattices in chemistry (like in graphene structure).
×

×