Grade 6 → Geometry → Triangles ↓
Properties of Triangles
A triangle is a simple closed figure made up of three line segments. It is one of the basic shapes in geometry. Understanding the properties of triangles is essential as it lays the foundation for learning more complex geometric concepts. In this lesson, we will explore the various properties of triangles in detail.
Basic properties of triangles
1. The sum of the angles of a triangle
A fundamental property is that the sum of the interior angles in a triangle is always 180 degrees. This can be expressed as:
angle A + angle B + angle C = 180°
This rule applies to all triangles, regardless of their type. For example, consider a triangle with angles of 50°, 60°, and 70°. If you add them together you get:
50° + 60° + 70° = 180°
2. Types of triangles based on angles
Let us look at the different types of triangles based on the angles.
Acute triangle
An acute-angled triangle is a triangle whose all three angles are less than 90 degrees.
Right triangle
One angle of a right triangle is exactly 90 degrees. The side opposite the right angle is the hypotenuse, and it is the longest side of the triangle.
Obtuse-angled triangle
An obtuse-angled triangle has one angle more than 90 degrees.
3. Types of triangles based on sides
Triangles can also be classified based on the length of their sides.
Equilateral triangle
The three sides of an equilateral triangle are of equal length. Therefore, the three angles are also equal and each measures 60 degrees.
Isosceles triangle
In an isosceles triangle at least two sides are of equal length. The angles opposite to equal sides are also equal.
Scalene triangle
In a scalene triangle, none of the sides are equal. The three sides are of different lengths and as a result, the three angles are different.
Other important properties
4. Triangle inequality theorem
The triangle inequality theorem states that the sum of the lengths of any two sides of a triangle must be greater than the length of the third side. It can be written as:
a + b > c
a + c > b
b + c > a
where a
, b
, and c
are the lengths of the sides of the triangle. For example, if we have a triangle with sides 5, 7, and 10, it satisfies:
5 + 7 > 10
5 + 10 > 7
7 + 10 > 5
5. Special lines in triangles
There are many special lines associated with triangles as well.
Height
The altitude of a triangle is a line segment from the vertex to the opposite side, forming a right angle (90 degrees) with that side. The altitude is also sometimes called the height of the triangle.
Median
The median of a triangle is a line segment that joins the vertex to the midpoint of the opposite side, and thus divides the opposite side into two equal parts.
Angle bisector
The angle bisector in a triangle is the line that divides an angle into two equal smaller angles.
Perpendicular bisector
The perpendicular bisector is a line that divides a side into two equal parts at a 90 degree angle.
Triangles in daily life
Understanding triangles is not just a matter of classroom learning; it also has practical applications in real life. Here are some examples of how triangles are used everyday:
Architecture
Triangles are often used in architecture to build strong and stable structures. The triangular shape provides better stability to structures such as bridges and buildings.
Engineering
Engineers use triangular structures to evenly distribute weight and maintain balance. This is especially important in the design of various machinery and vehicles.
Art and design
Triangles are commonly seen in art and design. Artists use triangle formations to create symmetry and balance in their compositions.
Guidance
Triangles are also important in navigation, often used in triangulation techniques to find an unknown location using the known positions of two other points.
Conclusion
Understanding the properties of triangles is important for exploring more complex geometric concepts. Whether in math, science, or practical applications in real life, triangles are fundamental shapes that help explain and create the world around us.