What's cross section?
Chloe Ramirez
Updated on April 08, 2026
Simply so, what's cross section?
In geometry and science, a cross section is the non-empty intersection of a solid body in three-dimensional space with a plane, or the analog in higher-dimensional spaces. Cutting an object into slices creates many parallel cross-sections.
One may also ask, what is cross section area? The cross-sectional area is the area of a two-dimensional shape that is obtained when a three-dimensional object - such as a cylinder - is sliced perpendicular to some specified axis at a point. For example, the cross-section of a cylinder - when sliced parallel to its base - is a circle.
Similarly one may ask, is the word cross section hyphenated?
NOTE: Cross section (the noun) is two words, but cross-sectional (the adjective) is hyphenated. The verb form is not the same as the adjective or noun.
What is a cross section in anatomy?
Cross-section: In anatomy, a transverse cut through a structure or tissue. The opposite is longitudinal section.
Related Question Answers
How do you find the area of a cross section?
Cross-Sectional Area of a Rectangular SolidThe volume of any rectangular solid, including a cube, is the area of its base (length times width) multiplied by its height: V = l × w × h. Therefore, if a cross section is parallel to the top or bottom of the solid, the area of the cross-section is l × w.