Looking at the lotus flower structure, can you think of any shapes in geometry that resemble the shape of a lotus petal? How would you describe that shape using geometry terms?
triangle?
Good guess! While a lotus petal isn't exactly triangular, it's a smart attempt. Petals often have a sort of oval or teardrop shape, which is kind of like a stretched circle, isn't it? If you had to fit a petal into a geometric shape, the closest might be an ellipse. Can you think of anything else in nature that has an elliptical shape?
a race track?
Exactly, a race track is often an oval shape, which is very similar to an ellipse! Now, thinking about the lotus petals and their arrangement, can you tell what kind of symmetry you might find in the flower structure?
If I have a plane splitting the stem in 2, then both parts of flower are same?
You've got it! That's called "bilateral symmetry," where one side is the mirror image of the other. Many flowers, including the lotus, show this kind of symmetry. Now, can you think of any living creatures that also have bilateral symmetry?
humans?
Exactly, humans! Most animals, including humans, exhibit bilateral symmetry. It means if you draw a line down the center of the body, both halves are mirror images of each other. It's pretty cool how patterns repeat in nature, isn't it? Now, how do you think bilateral symmetry might be helpful to animals or humans?
no idea
No worries, it’s an interesting thing to think about! Bilateral symmetry helps with balance and movement. For humans and animals, it means we can move straight and coordinate our two sides easily. It's also great for sensing the environment around us, having two eyes means better depth perception to see the world in 3D. Neat, right? Now, let's take a look at the colors of the lotus. How do colors help flowers like the lotus in nature?
Actually, let's go back to the oval race track. Why is a race track oval in shape?
Great question! Race tracks are often oval to make it easier for cars or athletes to maintain speed when they go around the curves. Sharp turns would require them to slow down a lot. The oval shape allows for smooth, continuous racing without too many sharp turns. Plus, it's easier for spectators to see the whole track. Now, think about this – if you were running on a track, would you prefer lots of turns or an oval shape? Why?
