What is the shape of a funnel when viewed from the side?

The shape of a funnel when viewed from the side resembles a cone, which is often likened to the shape of an Erlenmeyer flask, especially considering the narrower neck and wider base commonly found in these laboratory glassware types. In a funnel, the broader opening at the top gradually narrows down to a point, creating a conical shape that facilitates the easy transfer of liquids or powders.

The pyramid option does not represent the smooth, tapering design of a funnel, as pyramids consist of flat triangular faces converging at a point above a square or triangular base. A cylinder is characterized by straight edges and uniform diameter, which does not capture the tapered form of a funnel. The sphere is round and symmetrical in every direction, and it lacks the defined tapering characteristic that defines a funnel's shape. Thus, the Erlenmeyer flask shape, with its conical aspect, illustrates the funnel's view from the side most accurately.