# shape (geometric)

A structure of matter in a space.

- Computed level: L3 (depth in the emergence graph, not abstraction)
- Status: review  ·  Domain: everyday  ·  Arena: common

## Emergence
**Emerges from:** [structure](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-structure.arrangement), [matter](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-matter.substance), [space](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-space.extent)

**Through:** The arrangement of matter within a place of space is a shape.

**Novel properties:**
- spatial outline
- geometric identity

## Examples
- The hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant's Causeway formed from slow cooling of lava in Northern Ireland. *(geology)*
- The spherical shape of a soap bubble minimizes surface tension in three-dimensional space. *(physics)*
- The Parthenon's rectangular plan and curved stylobate correct optical distortions for human perception. *(architecture)*

## Used by
- [key](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-key.tool) (L10)
- [liquid](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-liquid.state) (L15)
- [metal](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-metal.element) (L13)
- [smith](https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-smith.metalwork) (L22)

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*Canonical: https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-shape.geometric*  
*Structured data: https://emergencemachine.com/tools/lexicon/what-is-the-meaning-of-shape.geometric.json*  
*Every definition provably resolves to space, time, energy and pattern.*