Triangle Congruence with Parallel Lines: Proving CDA ≅ ABC

Triangle Congruence with SSA Conditions

AB is parallel to CD.

Determine which of the following options needs to be true in order that the triangle CDA is equal to the triangle ABC:

AAABBBCCCDDD

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Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

AB is parallel to CD.

Determine which of the following options needs to be true in order that the triangle CDA is equal to the triangle ABC:

AAABBBCCCDDD

2

Step-by-step solution

In order to answer the question, we need to know all four congruence theorems -

SAS, SAA, ASA, SSA

Now let's deduce which data we can prove from the question -

AB is parallel to DC

And from this it follows that angle BAC equals angle ACD, given that these are equal alternate angles,

Furthermore we have a shared side AC, hence we have a shared angle and side.

We could have proven congruence using AB=DC, and then we would have SAA,

However this is not given to us in the options,

Hence let's look at the fourth congruence theorem - SSA,

In order for it to work, we need to show another side, BC=AD,

and this is indeed one of the options!

However it's important to remember that the fourth congruence theorem has a condition.

The theorem is valid only if the angle is opposite to the larger of the two sides.

Therefore we need to know that ACAC,

and indeed, one of these options exists!

Thus, we can see that there are two things we need,

and therefore answer D is correct!

3

Final Answer

Answers b and c.

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Parallel Lines: AB || CD creates alternate angles ∠BAC = ∠ACD
  • SSA Method: Need AD = BC and AC > AD for valid congruence
  • Check: Verify angle is opposite the larger side for SSA ✓

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Using SSA without checking side length condition
    Don't assume SSA always works = invalid congruence proof! SSA only works when the angle is opposite the longer of the two given sides. Always verify that the angle is opposite the larger side before applying SSA congruence.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Look at the triangles in the diagram.

Which of the statements is true?

727272727272131313222131313222AAABBBCCCDDDEEEFFF

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why isn't SAS enough with the shared side AC?

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We have angle-side from the parallel lines (∠BAC = ∠ACD and side AC), but we need two sides and the included angle for SAS. The angle we know isn't between our known sides.

What makes SSA different from the other congruence theorems?

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SSA has a special condition! It only works when the angle is opposite the longer of the two sides. That's why we need AC > AD in addition to AD = BC.

How do I identify alternate angles from parallel lines?

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When lines are parallel, alternate angles are on opposite sides of the transversal and between the parallel lines. Here, ∠BAC and ∠ACD are alternate angles created by transversal AC.

Why do we need both conditions b and c?

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Condition b (AD = BC) gives us the second side for SSA. Condition c (AC > AD) ensures the angle is opposite the longer side, making SSA valid. Both are essential!

Could we use a different congruence theorem instead?

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We could use SAS if we knew AB = DC, but that's not an option. With parallel lines giving us alternate angles, SSA becomes our best choice when both required conditions are met.

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