Geometry (angles): Leafy Angles
The Problem
The veins of a leaf act much like the blood vessels inside an animal’s body. They carry water and food to and from the plant’s leaves. Veins also provide the strong support that gives leaves their shape.
If you look closely at the sketch of the maple leaf (opposite), you’ll notice that interesting angles are created where veins branch out from each other.
- Can you find 5 acute angles? These are angles that are less than a right angle.
- Can you find 5 right angles?
- Can you find 5 obtuse angles? These are angles that are greater than a right angle but less than two right angles.
Did you know?
Animals get their energy from the food that they eat, but plants must make their own food. This process takes place mainly in the plant’s leaves. The cells in the leaves use light from the sun, along with carbon dioxide in the air and water to make food.
Visualising the Problem and Getting Started
Can you identify an angle that is roughly half the size of a right angle? What is this angle called?
Alicia said, “There are more acute angles than obtuse angles in this leaf section.” Do you agree with Alicia?
