Glossary

Mensuration – Key Terms & Definitions

Essential mensuration vocabulary for IGCSE Mathematics (0580). Each term includes a clear definition and example to help you understand and remember key concepts.

area

Core

Space inside a 2D shape

Example

$Measured in cm^2 or m^2$

perimeter

Core

Distance around a shape

Example

Sum of all side lengths

volume

Core

Space inside a 3D shape

Example

$Measured in cm^3 or m^3$

surface area

Core

Total area of all faces

Example

Sum of all face areas

circumference

Core

Distance around a circle

Example

$C = 2\pi r \text{ or } \pi d$

radius

Core

Distance from centre to edge of circle

Example

Half the diameter

diameter

Core

Distance across circle through centre

Example

Twice the radius

arc length

Core

Part of circumference

Example

$\dfrac{\theta}{360} \times 2\pi r$

sector area

Core

Area of pizza-slice shape

Example

$\dfrac{\theta}{360} \times \pi r^2$

cross-section

Core

Shape revealed by cutting through solid

Example

Cross-section of cylinder is circle

prism

Core

3D shape with uniform cross-section

Example

$V = \text{area of cross-section} \times \text{length}$

net

Core

2D pattern that folds into 3D shape

Example

Cube net has 6 squares

capacity

Core

Volume of liquid a container holds

Example

Often measured in litres

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many mensuration terms do I need to know for IGCSE?

This glossary covers 13 key mensuration terms. Focus on understanding definitions and being able to use each term in context during exams.

Are these terms for Core or Extended?

Terms are labelled as Core or Extended. Core students should focus on Core-labelled terms, while Extended students need to know all terms.

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