Math Problem Statement

If a pair of corresponding angles formed by a transversal of two lines is congruent, prove that the two lines are parallel.

Solution

Let's work through the provided proof.

The given problem states that if a pair of corresponding angles formed by a transversal of two lines is congruent, then the two lines are parallel.

Given:

  • Line nn is a transversal of line ll and line mm.
  • a\angle a and b\angle b are congruent corresponding angles. That is, a=b\angle a = \angle b.

To Prove:

  • Line lml \parallel m.

Proof:

  1. a+c=180\angle a + \angle c = 180^\circ (angles in a linear pair)
    Linear pairs of angles always add up to 180 degrees.

  2. a=b\angle a = \angle b (given)

  3. So, b+c=180\angle b + \angle c = 180^\circ.

  4. b\angle b and c\angle c are interior angles on the same side of the transversal.

  5. Since the sum of these two angles equals 180 degrees, it proves that lines ll and mm are parallel by the consecutive interior angles theorem.

  6. Thus, line lml \parallel m.

Finally, this property is called the corresponding angles test for parallel lines.


If you need further details, feel free to ask!

Related Questions:

  1. What are alternate interior angles and how do they prove lines are parallel?
  2. How can we apply the converse of the corresponding angles theorem?
  3. What other theorems relate to angles formed by a transversal?
  4. How are co-interior angles used to prove lines parallel?
  5. How do we distinguish between different angle pairs formed by a transversal?

Tip: Always remember, corresponding angles are on the same side of the transversal and in the same relative position.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Geometry
Angles
Transversals
Parallel Lines

Formulas

Sum of linear pair angles: \( \angle a + \angle c = 180^\circ \)

Theorems

Corresponding Angles Theorem
Consecutive Interior Angles Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 7-9