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Geometry Two-Column Proofs

Sep 18, 2025

Overview

This lecture covers two-column proofs involving angle congruence and supplementary angles, demonstrating how to logically prove relationships between angles using key geometric properties.

Two-Column Proof: Vertical Angles

  • Given: Angle 1 is congruent to Angle 2.
  • Statement: Angle 2 and Angle 3 are vertical angles.
  • Reason: Vertical angles are congruent.
  • Conclusion: Angle 1 is congruent to Angle 3 by the transitive property.

Two-Column Proof: Supplements of Congruent Angles

  • Given: Angle 1 supplementary to Angle 2; Angle 3 supplementary to Angle 4; Angle 1 is congruent to Angle 4.
  • If Angle 1 = 100°, then Angle 4 = 100° (since they are congruent).
  • Angle 2 and Angle 3 each measure 80° (supplements to 100°).
  • Conclusion: Angle 2 is congruent to Angle 3.
  • Reason: Supplements of congruent angles are congruent.

Two-Column Proof: Angle Addition and Subtraction

  • Given: Angle BAC is congruent to Angle BCA; Angle 2 is congruent to Angle 4.
  • Definition: Congruent angles have equal measures.
  • Angle BAC = Angle 1 + Angle 2; Angle BCA = Angle 3 + Angle 4 (Angle Addition Postulate).
  • Since angle measures are equal, set Angle 1 + Angle 2 = Angle 3 + Angle 4 (Substitution Property).
  • Since Angle 2 = Angle 4, subtract these from both sides to get Angle 1 = Angle 3 (Subtraction Property).
  • Conclusion: Angle 1 is congruent to Angle 3 (Definition of Congruent Angles).

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Congruent Angles — Angles that have equal measures.
  • Vertical Angles — Angles formed opposite each other when two lines cross; always congruent.
  • Supplementary Angles — Two angles whose measures sum to 180 degrees.
  • Transitive Property — If angle A ≅ angle B and angle B ≅ angle C, then angle A ≅ angle C.
  • Angle Addition Postulate — The measure of a larger angle is the sum of its non-overlapping parts.
  • Substitution Property — Replacing one quantity with an equal value in an equation.
  • Subtraction Property — Subtracting equal amounts from both sides of an equation produces equality.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Practice writing two-column proofs for angle congruence and supplementary relationships.
  • Review definitions and properties of angles for upcoming assignments.