4.1.3 Angles on a Transversal

4.1.3 ANGLES ON A TRANSVERSAL

Definition:

A transversal is a line that cuts two lines at two distinct points.

Transversal Diagram

Properties of Angles Formed by a Transversal and Two Parallel Lines

Angle Type Definition Angle Relationships
Corresponding Angles Angles formed at the same relative position at each intersection. ∠a = ∠e, ∠c = ∠g, ∠b = ∠f, ∠d = ∠h
Vertically Opposite Angles Angles formed opposite each other at an intersection. ∠a = ∠d, ∠b = ∠c, ∠e = ∠h, ∠f = ∠g
Alternate Interior Angles Angles formed inside the two parallel lines on opposite sides of the transversal. ∠c = ∠f, ∠d = ∠e
Alternate Exterior Angles Angles formed outside the two parallel lines on opposite sides of the transversal. ∠a = ∠h, ∠b = ∠g
Consecutive Interior (Co-interior) Angles Angles formed inside the two parallel lines on the same side of the transversal. These angles are supplementary. ∠c + ∠e = 180°, ∠d + ∠f = 180°

Example 4.5

Find the value of each indicated angle.

Example 4.5 Diagram
Example 4.6 Diagram
Example 4.7 Diagram

Summary

  • Corresponding angles are equal.
  • Vertically opposite angles are equal.
  • Alternate interior angles are equal.
  • Alternate exterior angles are equal.
  • Co-interior angles add up to 180°.
Exercise

Exercise

Transversal Assignment Questions

(a)

Find x.

7x +61=180

7x = 180-61

7x =119

x=17

(b)

Find x.

(x − 4 ) + 135 = 180

x -4 = 180-135

x - 4 = 45

x=49

(e)

Find x.

Corresponding angles are equal. x − 9 = 42 x = 51

(d)

Find x.

3x + 2 = 107

3x = 105

x = 35