What is a defining characteristic of a square?

A square is uniquely defined by having four right angles and four sides that are all of equal length, making them congruent. This characteristic sets a square apart from other quadrilaterals. The right angles ensure that each corner is a perfect right angle, and the congruence of the sides ensures that all sides are equal in length, which defines the square's shape and properties.

The property of four right angles and equal sides allows a square to be classified as a regular polygon, which is a crucial concept in geometry, particularly when studying properties of different shapes. This definition not only confirms the square's identity but also allows for further exploration of its attributes, such as being a type of rectangle (since all angles are right angles) and a type of rhombus (since all sides are congruent).

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the key characteristics of a square. For example, having three right angles does not align with the definition of a square, as it must have four. Having only two parallel sides could describe various shapes, including trapezoids, but not a square, which is a closed figure with all sides equal and parallel relations existing in every pair of opposite sides. Moreover, stating that a square has no