Understanding Opposite Rays in Geometry | Common Endpoint, Opposite Directions, Collinearity, and Uniqueness

opposite rays

In geometry, opposite rays are two rays that have a common endpoint and extend in opposite directions indefinitely

In geometry, opposite rays are two rays that have a common endpoint and extend in opposite directions indefinitely. The common endpoint is called the vertex of the rays.

Opposite rays are also known as “opposite sides” or “opposite directions.” They are sometimes represented using a line segment with two arrows indicating the direction of the rays.

Key properties of opposite rays include:

1. Common Endpoint: Opposite rays always have the same starting point or vertex. This point is shared by both rays.

2. Opposite Directions: The two rays extend in exactly opposite directions from the common endpoint.

3. Collinearity: Opposite rays lie on the same line. They form a straight line when extended.

4. Uniqueness: Given a line and a point on it, there is only one pair of opposite rays that can be formed.

It is important to note that opposite rays are not limited by a specific length; they can extend indefinitely in both directions. They are commonly used in geometry when discussing angles, such as how they are formed by opposite rays.

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