What are the main element and principle used in a tesselation?
The main elements used in tessellation are shapes or motifs that repeat and fit together without any gaps or overlaps. The main principle used in tessellation is repetition and symmetry.
1. Shapes: Tessellations use basic geometric shapes such as triangles, squares, hexagons, and other polygons as the main elements. These shapes are repeated in a pattern to fill the plane or surface without any gaps.
2. Motifs: A motif refers to a specific design or pattern that is repeated in a tessellation. It can be as simple as a single shape or a more complex design composed of multiple shapes. The motifs create the repetition necessary for tessellation.
3. Repetition: Repetition is a fundamental principle in tessellation. It is the act of repeating the same shape or motif in a regular pattern to cover the entire area without leaving any gaps or overlaps. The repetition creates a sense of unity and harmony.
4. Symmetry: Symmetry plays a crucial role in tessellation. It refers to a balanced arrangement of shapes or motifs. Tessellations often exhibit different types of symmetry, such as translation symmetry (shapes shifted in the same direction), rotational symmetry (shapes rotated around a central point), or reflection symmetry (shapes mirrored across a line).
5. Color or Texture: Though not essential, color or texture can be used to enhance the visual appeal of tessellations. By applying different colors or textures to shapes or motifs, tessellations can create more depth and variety.
Overall, the combination of repeating shapes or motifs, the principle of repetition, and the use of symmetry form the main elements and principles in a tessellation.