Explode

In this Task 

• The Rectangle will be converted into 4 separate lines joined by the corner vertices.

Associated Tasks 

• Using the Select tool to select the Rectangle.

Before you Start 

• Use the Zoom tools to adjust the magnification so that the entire rectangle is visible in the editor.

Take Note 

• When using the Explode tool, first select the object to be modified, then the Explode tool.
• Menu options for the Default menu and workspace, the Ribbon and Palettes are provided directly under the Command Name heading.

Explode

Ribbon : Modify | Format | Explode

Default Menu : Modify | Explode

SHIFT-ALT-E

The Explode tool reduces a compound entity to its individual components. For example, a rectangle, when exploded comprises 4 single lines instead of a single entity.

When the Rectangle tool is used to create a rectangular shape, the shape is created as a polyline. This is a continual line sequence which comprises a single object.

To produce a rectangle comprising 4 separate lines, select the newly drawn rectangle. A Selector Shell will enclose the selected objects.

Rectangle selected as a polyline unit

Select the Explode tool from the menu options above.

Press the keyboard ESC key to discard the Selector Shell from the object, then left click onto any line. The Selector Shell will now attach only to the single segment, shown below.

Rectangle returned to single lines after Explode