Which of these correctly defines a ray?
a part of a line with exactly two end points
a straight path that extends endlessly in both directions
a circular path such that every point on the path is equidistant from its center
a part of a line that begins at a particular point and extends endlessly in one direction
a part of a line that begins at a particular point and extends endlessly in one direction
To correctly define a ray, you can determine the answer by understanding the properties and characteristics of a ray.
A ray is a part of a line that begins at a specific point and extends endlessly in one direction. It can be visualized as a straight path with one fixed endpoint, also known as the "initial point," and it continues infinitely in the other direction. Rays are typically named by using two letters, with the endpoint appearing first.
Now, let's compare the options:
1. A part of a line with exactly two end points: This definition does not accurately describe a ray because a ray has only one endpoint, not two.
2. A straight path that extends endlessly in both directions: This definition is closer to describing a line rather than a ray, as a ray only extends endlessly in one direction.
3. A circular path such that every point on the path is equidistant from its center: This definition describes a circle, not a ray. In a circle, all points on the path are equidistant from the center.
4. A part of a line that begins at a particular point and extends endlessly in one direction: This is the correct definition of a ray. It accurately captures the characteristics of a ray, having one initial point and extending infinitely in one direction.
So, the correct definition of a ray is: "a part of a line that begins at a particular point and extends endlessly in one direction."