Steply

Prove alternate angles 3 and 6 are equal

Step by step, with the reason for every step · Two-column proofs · Geometry

Step by step

The question

Question: prove that alternate angles are equal: ∠3 = ∠6.

We must show why ∠3 = ∠6 is always true.

Prove: = ∠3 = ∠6

Careful!

That is why the first row says the lines are parallel.

Careful: corresponding angles are equal
only when the lines are parallel

A proof is a table.

On the left: what we know.

On the right: why it is true.

1 Write what we know

The arrows show it: AB is parallel to CD.

AB ∥ CD

2 Use the angle facts

∠2 and ∠6 are in the same place at each crossing.

∠2 = ∠6

∠2 and ∠3 are opposite each other where two lines cross.

∠2 = ∠3

3 Reach the goal

∠3 and ∠6 are both equal to ∠2.

∠3 = ∠6

4 Check

Let's check: every row has a reason.

And the last row is what we had to prove: ∠3 = ∠6.

The proof is done!

Let's look back.

First: write what we know.

Then: use the angle facts.

Then: reach the goal.

Last: check.

Answer
Prove: = ∠3 = ∠6

Your turn

Try this one yourself, then check:

Prove ∠4 = ∠5.
Show the answer
Given → Corresponding angles → Vertical angles → Both = ∠1

More from Two-column proofs

The whole lesson: Two-column proofs →