Math Problem Statement

Prove that lines x and z are parallel given y || z and ∠7 ≅ ∠5.

Solution

The diagram provided is a geometric proof problem involving parallel lines and transversals. Here's a breakdown of the situation:

Diagram Analysis:

  1. Three lines: The top and bottom lines seem to be parallel, while the middle line (denoted as yy) is stated as being parallel to another line zz. There is also a transversal that intersects these lines at different angles.
  2. Given Information:
    • yzy \parallel z (i.e., the middle line is parallel to the bottom line).
    • 75\angle 7 \cong \angle 5 (i.e., angles 7 and 5 are congruent).

Objective:

  • We are tasked to prove that xzx \parallel z (the top line is parallel to the bottom line).

Reasoning:

  1. Corresponding Angles: Since yzy \parallel z, by the Corresponding Angles Postulate, the angles formed by a transversal cutting parallel lines must be congruent. This means that 7\angle 7 and 5\angle 5 being congruent indicates a transversal between the two parallel lines.

  2. Transitivity of Parallelism: If two lines (here yy and zz) are parallel and a third line (xx) creates corresponding angles with one of those lines (specifically zz) via a transversal, then xx must also be parallel to zz by the Corresponding Angles Converse Theorem.

Proof Outline:

  1. Given: yzy \parallel z.
  2. Given: 75\angle 7 \cong \angle 5 (by the Corresponding Angles Postulate for yzy \parallel z).
  3. Since 7\angle 7 and 5\angle 5 are corresponding angles for the lines xx and zz, we can use the Converse of the Corresponding Angles Postulate.
  4. Conclusion: xzx \parallel z.

Thus, the lines xx and zz are parallel as required.

Would you like more details or clarifications? Here are some related questions to deepen understanding:

  1. What is the Converse of the Corresponding Angles Postulate?
  2. How can alternate interior angles help in proving parallel lines?
  3. What other postulates or theorems could be used to prove lines parallel?
  4. How does the concept of transversals apply to different types of angles (e.g., same-side interior)?
  5. How do the properties of angles change when lines are no longer parallel?

Tip: When proving lines parallel, always look for congruent angles formed by transversals, as they are key indicators of parallelism.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Parallel Lines
Transversals
Congruent Angles
Corresponding Angles

Formulas

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Theorems

Corresponding Angles Postulate
Converse of Corresponding Angles Postulate

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 9-10