Angles in Parallel Lines

Identify corresponding, alternate, and co-interior angles with parallel lines for GCSE Maths.

When a transversal crosses two parallel lines, special angle relationships are created. These are tested extensively at GCSE.

Core Concepts

Corresponding Angles (F-angles)

Same position at each intersection. Equal.

Alternate Angles (Z-angles)

Opposite sides of the transversal, between the parallels. Equal.

Co-interior Angles (C-angles / Allied)

Same side of the transversal, between the parallels. Sum to 180°.

Vertically Opposite Angles

Where two lines cross. Equal.

Strategy

  1. Identify the parallel lines and transversal.
  2. Determine the angle relationship (F, Z, or C).
  3. Apply the rule.

Worked Example: Example 1

Problem

Corresponding angles: if one is 72°72°, the other is 72°72°.

Solution

Worked Example: Example 2

Problem

Co-interior angles: if one is 115°115°, the other is 180115=65°180 - 115 = 65°.

Solution

Worked Example: Example 3

Problem

Alternate angles with algebra: 3x+10=5x203x + 10 = 5x - 20x=15x = 15.

Solution

Practice Problems

    1. Find the missing angle: corresponding angle is 48°48°.
    1. Co-interior angle pair: one is 130°130°. Find the other.
    1. Alternate angles: 2x+15=4x92x + 15 = 4x - 9. Find xx.

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Key Takeaways

  • Corresponding (F): equal.

  • Alternate (Z): equal.

  • Co-interior (C): sum to 180°.

  • Look for F, Z, C shapes in the diagram.

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