VERTICAL ANGLES Meaning and
Definition
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Vertical angles are a pair of angles that are formed when two lines intersect. These angles are opposite each other and have the same vertex or point of intersection. The term "vertical" is used to describe these angles because they are formed by two intersecting lines that are perpendicular to each other and appear to be vertical in relation to one another.
Vertical angles are also referred to as vertically opposite angles, as they are opposite each other when two lines intersect. They are congruent, and each pair of vertical angles is made up of two adjacent and non-adjacent angles. This means that if one angle measures a certain number of degrees, its vertical angle will also measure the same number of degrees.
The sum of the measures of the two intersecting lines is always 180 degrees because they form a straight line. Therefore, the measures of the vertical angles are always equal, each being half of the sum of the two intersecting lines.
Vertical angles are crucial in various geometric applications, including proving theorems and solving problems involving angles. They help establish relationships between different pairs of angles and assist in determining unknown angle measures. Understanding vertical angles helps in identifying congruent angles and making calculations to solve problems in geometry and trigonometry.
Etymology of VERTICAL ANGLES
The word "vertical" originates from the Latin word "vertex", meaning "highest point" or "summit". "Angle" also comes from Latin, derived from the word "angulus", meaning "corner" or "bend". Therefore, the term "vertical angles" refers to angles formed at the highest point or summit, typically referring to angles formed by intersecting lines.
