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How do you solve for supplementary angles?

Published in Geometry 2 mins read

To solve for supplementary angles, remember that their sum is always 180 degrees. Here's a breakdown of the steps:

  1. Identify the angles: Determine the two angles that are stated to be supplementary.

  2. Set up the equation: Write an equation where the sum of the two angles equals 180 degrees. If the angles are 'a' and 'b', the equation will be: a + b = 180°

  3. Substitute known values: If you know the measure of one of the angles, substitute that value into the equation.

  4. Solve for the unknown: Subtract the known angle from both sides of the equation to isolate the unknown angle.

Example:

Let's say angle 'x' and an angle measuring 60 degrees are supplementary. To find the measure of angle 'x':

  1. Identify the angles: We have angle 'x' and a 60-degree angle.
  2. Set up the equation: x + 60° = 180°
  3. Substitute known values: The equation remains x + 60° = 180°
  4. Solve for the unknown: Subtract 60° from both sides: x = 180° - 60° Therefore, x = 120°

In summary: Supplementary angles add up to 180 degrees. To find an unknown supplementary angle, subtract the known angle from 180 degrees.

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