What is the transformation called when a shape slides without turning?

The transformation where a shape slides without turning is referred to as a translation. In this process, every point of the shape moves the same distance in the same direction. The orientation and size of the shape remain unchanged; only its position on the coordinate plane alters.

This concept is key in geometry as it helps in understanding how shapes can be manipulated without altering their fundamental properties. For example, if you imagine moving a triangle across a grid to a different location without flipping or rotating it, that action exemplifies translation.

Other transformations, such as reflection and rotation, involve changes to the orientation of the shape. Reflection flips the shape over a line, creating a mirror image, while rotation turns the shape around a specific point. Dilation changes the size of the shape while maintaining its proportions. In contrast, a translation simply shifts the entire shape, maintaining all of its attributes intact. Therefore, translation is the correct term for this specific movement of a shape.