Learn
A line
A line extends forever in both directions. It has no beginning or end. On paper, we draw only part of it. Arrows at both ends show that it continues.
A ray
A ray has an endpoint and extends forever in one direction. Its drawing has a marked endpoint and one arrow.
A line segment
A line segment is the part of a line between two endpoints. Segment AB has endpoints A and B. We can measure its length. A line and a ray do not have a finite total length.
Try it yourself
Draw a line, a ray, and segment AB. Check that the line has two arrows, the ray has one, and the segment has two marked endpoints.
See an example answer
The line drawing has arrows at both ends. The ray starts at a point and has an arrow showing its direction. The segment ends at A and B.
Check your knowledge
Choose one answer for each question. You can revise your answers and check again.
Answer key
- A line. A line has no beginning or end.
- One. A ray starts at one point.
- Segment AB. A segment is bounded by two endpoints.
- The line continues. The drawing is limited by the paper, but the line continues.
- A and B. The two named points mark the ends of the segment.