Overview
This lesson covers the additive property of length in geometry, showing how to find the length of a whole segment by adding the lengths of its parts.
Additive Property of Length
- The additive property of length states that if point Y is between points X and Z, then XY + YZ = XZ.
- To find the total length of a segment divided into two parts, add the lengths of the two parts.
- This property works for any straight line segment that is split into connected parts.
Example Problems
- If ST = 15 and TU = 17, then SU = ST + TU = 15 + 17 = 32.
- If DE = 10 and EF = 16, then DF = DE + EF = 10 + 16 = 26.
Applying the Property
- Use diagrams to identify the parts and their lengths before adding them.
- Always check if the points are on a straight line and in order before applying the property.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Additive Property of Length — If a point is between two others on a segment, the sum of the two smaller segments equals the total segment.
- Segment — A part of a line with two endpoints.
- Endpoint — The starting or ending point of a segment.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Practice using the additive property of length in segment addition problems.
- Try exercises on IXL or related geometry problems using number lines and diagrams.