Question

Can you think of creating a shape that would give a circular shadow if held in one way and a rectangular shadow if held in another way?

Answer 1

Yes, a cylindrical shape is the only one that can cast both a circular and a rectangular shadow depending on how it is held. When kept in the path of the light, its rounded ends will cast a circular shadow, whilst its curved sides will cast a rectangular shadow.

Explanation:

1. When an opaque item or substance is positioned in the path of the light, shadows are created. The opaque substance prevents light from passing through it. The light rays that go past the edges of the material make an outline for the shadow.
2. When held one way, the cylindrical object will throw a circular shadow, and another way, a rectangular shadow.
3. Show light toward the cylinder's circular portion by using an object with a cylinder shape, such as a pencil.
4. A circular picture will be produced. Now, direct light towards the cylinder's longitudinal surface.
5. A rectangle picture will be produced.
6. When held in a certain way, an item with a cylindrical shape can throw a shadow that is either circular or rectangular.

An illustrated diagram of the shadow is given below.