What term describes a surface that is curved outward?

The term that describes a surface that is curved outward is "convex." In geometry, a convex surface bulges outwards like the exterior of a sphere or the side of a balloon. This curvature means that if you were to draw a line segment between any two points on the surface, the line would lie entirely outside the surface, demonstrating its outward bulging nature.

Understanding the curvature is crucial in various fields, including anatomy and design, as it can affect how surfaces interact with light, force, and movement. In medical applications, for example, the convex shape of certain bones or organs can influence their function and how they accommodate surrounding tissues.

The other terms describe different types of surfaces: "concave" refers to a surface that curves inward, like a bowl; "flat" indicates no curvature at all, remaining even across the surface; and "linear" describes a straight line or straight surface, which does not exhibit any curvature. Recognizing these distinctions is vital for accurate communication in health science and related fields.