FTCE General Knowledge Math Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

A rectangle is defined as a quadrilateral with specific properties that make it distinct from other shapes. The defining characteristic of a rectangle is that it possesses opposite sides that are parallel, which is a trait it shares with other quadrilaterals such as parallelograms. In addition to having parallel opposite sides, a rectangle is unique in that all of its interior angles measure 90 degrees, or right angles. This specific criterion of right angles ensures that the structure has a certain uniformity and symmetry.

The properties of a rectangle help to differentiate it from other quadrilaterals. For instance, while some quadrilaterals may have acute angles (less than 90 degrees), a rectangle specifically has right angles. Additionally, not all sides of a rectangle are required to be of equal length; only opposite sides need to be equal and parallel, allowing for the presence of different lengths along the adjacent sides, which distinguishes it from square shapes where all sides are equal. Lastly, having no parallel sides, as suggested in one of the choices, is a characteristic that applies to entirely different figures and thus does not describe a rectangle.

Overall, the correct characterization captures the essential attributes of a rectangle, solidifying its definition within the context of geometry.