Congruence of Triangles
In this section, we explore the concept of congruence, primarily focusing on triangles. Congruent figures are those that have identical shapes and sizes. The section highlights that two triangles are congruent if their corresponding sides and angles are equal. Various criteria for triangle congruence are introduced, including:
- SAS (Side-Angle-Side) Theorem: Two triangles are congruent if two sides and the angle between them are equal.
- ASA (Angle-Side-Angle) Theorem: Two triangles are congruent if two angles and the side between them are equal.
- SSS (Side-Side-Side) Theorem: Two triangles are congruent if all three sides of one triangle are equal to all three sides of another triangle.
- AAS (Angle-Angle-Side) Theorem: Two triangles are congruent if two angles and a non-included side are equal.
- RHS (Right angle-Hypotenuse-Side) Theorem: If in two right triangles, the hypotenuse and one side of one triangle are equal to the hypotenuse and one side of the other triangle, then the two triangles are congruent.
The concept of congruence is essential in applications such as manufacturing, where identical pieces need to fit together perfectly. Additionally, the section emphasizes the importance of consistent notation when denoting congruent triangles, which includes proper correspondence of their vertices. The section concludes with exercises that reinforce the understanding of triangle congruence through practical examples.