Understanding Complementary Angles in Mathematics: Definitions, Examples, and Applications

complementary

In mathematics, the term “complementary” refers to a relationship between two angles that add up to a right angle, which is equal to 90 degrees

In mathematics, the term “complementary” refers to a relationship between two angles that add up to a right angle, which is equal to 90 degrees. When two angles are complementary, the measures of their angles add up to 90 degrees.

For example, let’s say we have two angles, angle A and angle B. If angle A measures 30 degrees, then angle B must measure 60 degrees in order for them to be complementary (30 + 60 = 90).

Complementary angles can be found in many geometric shapes and situations. For instance, in a right triangle, one of the angles is always 90 degrees. The other two angles are complementary to each other.

Complementary angles can also be found in adjacent angles, which are angles that share a common vertex and a common side. If two adjacent angles add up to 90 degrees, they are considered complementary.

It is important to note that complementary angles do not have to be adjacent or connected in any way. They can be located anywhere in a plane or space, as long as their measures add up to 90 degrees.

To find the measure of a complementary angle, subtract the given angle’s measure from 90 degrees. For example, if you have a complementary angle of 70 degrees, subtract 70 from 90 to find the other angle’s measure: 90 – 70 = 20 degrees.

In summary, complementary angles are two angles whose measures add up to 90 degrees. Understanding the concept of complementary angles can assist in solving various mathematical problems involving angles and geometric shapes.

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