6 Properties of Rhombuses, Rectangles and Squares

Rhombuses, rectangles, and squares are three different shapes that have a few similarities, but also some distinct differences. All three are quadrilaterals, or four-sided shapes, and all three have their own unique set of properties. In this article, we will discuss the six properties of rhombuses, rectangles, and squares that help distinguish them from one another.

1. Number of Sides

Number of Sides

One of the most obvious differences between rhombuses, rectangles, and squares is the number of sides they have. Rhombuses, for example, have four sides, just like rectangles and squares. However, all four sides of a rhombus are of equal length, while the sides of rectangles and squares can vary in length.

2. Perimeter

Perimeter

The perimeter of a shape is the distance around the outside of the shape. The perimeter of a rhombus, rectangle, and square can all be calculated by simply adding up the length of all the sides. Rhombuses, rectangles, and squares all have equal perimeters if they have equal side lengths.

3. Area

Area

The area of a shape is the total amount of space inside the shape. The area of a rhombus, rectangle, and square can all be calculated by multiplying the length and width of the shape. Rhombuses, rectangles, and squares all have the same area if they have the same length and width.

4. Angles

Angles

The angles of rhombuses, rectangles, and squares are also different. A rhombus has four angles that are all equal; each angle measures 90 degrees. A rectangle has four angles as well, but two of the angles are 90 degrees and two are less than 90 degrees. A square has four 90 degree angles, which are all equal.

5. Diagonals

Diagonals

In addition to the sides of a shape, the diagonals are also important in distinguishing between rhombuses, rectangles, and squares. A rhombus has two diagonals that are equal in length and they bisect each other in the middle. A rectangle has two diagonals that are not equal in length and they do not bisect each other. A square has two diagonals that are equal in length and they bisect each other in the middle.

6. Opposite Sides

Opposite Sides

The opposite sides of a shape are also important in distinguishing between rhombuses, rectangles, and squares. In a rhombus, all four sides are equal in length, which makes all opposite sides equal. In a rectangle, two opposite sides are equal in length, while the other two are not. In a square, all four sides are equal in length, which makes all opposite sides equal.



Rhombuses, rectangles, and squares all have their own unique set of properties that help distinguish them from one another. The number of sides, perimeter, area, angles, diagonals, and opposite sides can all be used to identify these shapes. Understanding the properties of these shapes can help you better understand the differences between them.