Lesson 2 of 10

Parallel Lines and Transversals

When a transversal crosses parallel lines, special angle pairs are formed — alternate interior, corresponding, and co-interior angles.

Parallel Lines

Lines in the same plane that never intersect are parallel. Notation: l ∥ m. The distance between them is constant everywhere.

Transversal

A transversal is a line that crosses two or more lines. It creates 8 angles when it crosses two lines.

Angle Pairs

Corresponding angles are equal (same position at each intersection). Alternate interior angles are equal (Z-shape). Co-interior (same-side interior) angles are supplementary (sum to 180°).

Proving Lines Parallel

If corresponding angles are equal, or alternate interior angles are equal, or co-interior angles sum to 180°, then the lines are parallel.

🔬 Interactive Lab

Drag to change transversal angle — watch the angle pairs stay equal

✅ Check Your Understanding

Q1: A transversal crosses two parallel lines. One angle is 70°. Its alternate interior angle is:

Q2: Co-interior angles formed by a transversal and parallel lines:

Q3: If corresponding angles are NOT equal, the lines are:

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