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Understanding Triangles and Their Properties

Nov 21, 2024

Chapter 7: Triangles

7.1 Introduction

  • A triangle is a closed figure formed by three intersecting lines.
  • Components of a triangle: 3 sides, 3 angles, 3 vertices.
  • Study of congruence of triangles, rules of congruence, properties, and inequalities.

7.2 Congruence of Triangles

  • Congruent figures: identical in shape and size (e.g., identical photographs, ATM cards).
  • Congruent circles and squares match completely when placed on top of each other.
  • Congruence is used in real-life applications like moulding.
  • Example: Congruent triangles: If all sides and angles of one triangle match another, they are congruent.
  • Symbolic representation: PQR ≅ ABC implies each side and angle of one corresponds exactly to the other.

7.3 Criteria for Congruence of Triangles

  • Four criteria for triangle congruence:
    • SAS (Side-Angle-Side) Rule: Two triangles are congruent if two sides and the included angle of one are equal to those of the other.
    • ASA (Angle-Side-Angle) Rule: Two triangles are congruent if two angles and the included side of one are equal to those of the other.
    • AAS (Angle-Angle-Side) Rule: Two triangles are congruent if two angles and a corresponding side of one are equal to those of the other.
    • SSS (Side-Side-Side) Rule: Two triangles are congruent if all three sides of one are equal to those of the other.
    • RHS (Right angle-Hypotenuse-Side) Rule: In right-angled triangles, if the hypotenuse and one side of one are equal to those of the other, they are congruent.

7.4 Some Properties of a Triangle

  • Isosceles triangle: Two sides are equal, and angles opposite these sides are equal.
  • The converse: If two angles are equal, then the sides opposite them are equal.

7.5 Some More Criteria for Congruence of Triangles

  • Confirmed that equality of three angles is not enough for congruence.
  • SSS Rule: Validated through construction and comparison activities.

7.6 Inequalities in a Triangle

  • Theorem 7.6: If two sides of a triangle are unequal, the angle opposite the longer side is larger.
  • Theorem 7.7: In any triangle, the side opposite the larger angle is longer.
  • Theorem 7.8: The sum of any two sides of a triangle is greater than the third side.

7.7 Summary

  • Congruent figures: same shape and size.
  • Specific congruence rules (SAS, ASA, AAS, SSS, RHS).
  • Properties of isosceles and equilateral triangles.
  • Inequalities: Relating sides and angles in triangles.

Exercises: Include practical applications and proof exercises related to the discussed theorems and congruence rules.