In 3D geometry 3 distinct points that are not on the same line determine a unique plane that contains those 3 points. Then why do most tables have 4 legs and not 3 legs? Isn't it possible that by adding the 4th leg, the points of contact to the floor would no longer be in the same plane?
2007-07-18 20:52:40 · 8 answers · asked by Sticky 2 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Other - Science
The design has proven to be the best solution over centuries. Even if the legs(4) do not form a perfect plane. A table needs to have its legs as far to the outside as possible for stability and as most tables are rectangular (more or less) 4 legs are better than three even if the table is a little shaky because of an uneven floor or a shorter or longer leg.
THere are 3-legged tables most of them are round and have a rather small diameter as with those. Also triangular tables have of course three legs. We can even regard a rectangular table being two triangular tables sharing a common leg at each end point of their hypotenuses.
2007-07-18 21:42:31 · answer #1 · answered by Martin S 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I have seen tables with one leg, but it had a huge spread out foot.
3 legs will always stand up.
Some tables have 4,6,8,10
It is difficult to make a table with 4 legs be absolutely flat with no wiggleing. 3 is better.
2007-07-19 01:32:25 · answer #2 · answered by science teacher 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Because some guy liked 4 and it's easier to make.
As tables are designed for flat surfaces, that 3D stuff is irrelevant. 4 will make it more stable. Tri removing a leg from a table and you'll see what I'm on about.
2007-07-18 22:48:10 · answer #3 · answered by Bob B 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
not all tables have 4 legs, but the more the better. a table needs at least 3 legs.
2007-07-18 22:09:43 · answer #4 · answered by SCOOOOOOByyyyyyyyyyyyyyy-dddooo! 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
there is tables with 2 or 3 legs too but those legs can be arranged differently or be different sizes
2016-03-15 06:44:55 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
i think it's because tables are.. quadrilaterals.. 4 legs seem to be more of a good design..
well, actually, i think having three legs gives more stability. XD;;
2007-07-18 20:57:00 · answer #6 · answered by ~p~ 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
So when one leg becomes shorter due to time and elements, we have a place to stick our packs of matches!
2007-07-18 21:03:40 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
you can fit more on top of it with four legs and it more stable with four legs
2007-07-18 20:58:32 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Remove one at a time, then the answer will come to you!
2007-07-19 10:42:57 · answer #9 · answered by DanKoko 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋