Shape
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A shape is a graphical representation of an object's form or its external boundary, outline, or external surface; it is distinct from other object properties, such as color, texture, or material type.
In geometry, shape excludes information about the object's location, scale, orientation and reflection.
A figure is a representation including both shape and size.
A children's toy called Shape-O made by Tupperware used for learning various shapes.
Figure of the Earth
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In geodesy, the figure of the Earth is the size and shape used to model planet Earth. The kind of figure depends on application, including the precision needed for the model. A spherical Earth is a well-known historical approximation that is satisfactory for geography, astronomy and many other purposes. Several models with greater accuracy have been developed so that coordinate systems can serve the precise needs of navigation, surveying, cadastre, land use, and various other concerns.
A view across a 20-km-wide bay in the coast of Spain. The curvature of the Earth is evident in the horizon across the image, and the bases of the buildings on the far shore are below that horizon and hidden by the sea.
Geoid undulation in false color, shaded relief and vertical exaggeration (10000 scale factor).
Geoid undulation in false color, to scale.