Parallel lines cut by a transversal solving equations answer key

When two parallel lines are “cut” by a transversal, some special properties arise.  We will begin by stating these properties, and then we can use these properties to solve some problems.

PROPERTY 1:  When two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then corresponding angles are congruent.

In the diagram below, angles 1 and 5 are corresponding, and so they are equal.  Similarly with angles 4 and 8, etc.

Parallel lines cut by a transversal solving equations answer key

PROPERTY 2:  When two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then adjacent angles are supplementary.  That is, when two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then the sum of adjacent angles is \(180^\circ \).

In the diagram above, this property tells us that angles 1 and 2 sum to \(180^\circ \).  Similarly with angles 5 and 6.

EXAMPLE:  Solve for \(x\).

Parallel lines cut by a transversal solving equations answer key

SOLUTION:  From property 2, we know that the 2 angles \(x + 75\), and \(A\) (so called by me) are supplementary.  That is,

\(x + 75 + A = 180\)

But from property 1, we know that \(A = x + 125\), since those two angles are corresponding.  Then \(x + 75 + x + 125 = 180\), so that \(2x + 200 = 180\). Then \(2x =  - 20\), and \(x =  - 10\).

EXAMPLE:  Solve for \(x\).

Parallel lines cut by a transversal solving equations answer key

SOLUTION:  Since, by property 1, we know that corresponding angles are congruent, we know that

\(12x + 3 = 11x + 9\)

\(x = 6\)

Below you can download some free math worksheets and practice.

Printable PDF & Digital Versions are included in this distance learning ready activity which consists of a maze of 11 parallel lines cut by transversal in which students are given angle measures as equations and must decide if they are congruent or supplementary and then solve for x. This Google Classroom and Easel by TPT ready activity come in both digital & PDF format. Your students are sure to have a fun and engaging lesson whether you are teaching physically in the classroom or virtual!

Not all boxes are used in the maze to prevent students from just guessing the correct route. In order to complete the maze students will have to calculate the value of X 9 times.

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Three Forms of Use Included

  1. Printable PDF
  2. Google Slides
  3. Easel by TPT

Answer key is included.

Please view the preview for an exact picture of what this maze looks like if you are unsure that this product is right for your classroom.

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How do you answer parallel lines cut by a transversal?

If two parallel lines are cut by a transversal, then the alternate interior angles formed are congruent . When two lines are cut by a transversal, the pairs of angles on either side of the transversal and outside the two lines are called the alternate exterior angles .

What five things happen when two parallel lines are cut by a transversal?

Parallel Lines and Transversals Postulates Corresponding Angles are congruent. Alternate Exterior Angles are congruent. Alternate Interior Angles are congruent. Same Side Interior Angles (Consecutive Interior Angles) sum to 180 degrees.

What are corresponding angles in math?

Definition: Corresponding angles are the angles which are formed in matching corners or corresponding corners with the transversal when two parallel lines are intersected by any other line (i.e. the transversal). For example, in the below-given figure, angle p and angle w are the corresponding angles.