How can we prove that parallelogram WXYZ is a rectangle …

Mathematics Questions

MANY POINTS Proving When a Parallelogram Is a Rectangle Given: WXYZ is a parallelogram. ZX = WY Prove: WXYZ is a rectangle.

Short Answer

To prove that the parallelogram WXYZ is a rectangle, first confirm its defining properties: it must have four right angles and opposite sides equal in length. Next, verify the side lengths and angles of WXYZ, ensuring opposite sides are equal and all angles are right angles, concluding that WXYZ is indeed a rectangle based on these characteristics.

Step-by-Step Solution

Step 1: Understand the Properties of a Rectangle

To prove that a parallelogram, specifically WXYZ, is a rectangle, you need to first understand the key properties that define a rectangle. A rectangle has the following characteristics:

  • Four right angles.
  • Opposite sides that are equal in length.
  • Adjacent sides that are perpendicular to each other.

Establishing that WXYZ has these properties will be crucial in the proof.

Step 2: Verify Side Lengths and Angles

Next, you need to verify specific measurements and relationships within the figure WXYZ. Since it’s given that WXYZ is a parallelogram, you can use these properties:

  • WZ is equal to XY (opposite sides).
  • YZ is equal to WX (opposite sides).
  • Angles

Showing that opposite angles are congruent and utilizing the Side-Angle-Side (SAS) property for triangles will solidify your argument.

Step 3: Conclude with Rectangular Properties

Finally, conclude your proof by summarizing the findings related to side lengths and angles. If you confirm that:

  • WZ = XY and YZ = WX (from the properties of a parallelogram),
  • All angles are right angles, and
  • Opposite angles are congruent,

then you can definitively state that WXYZ is a rectangle based on the established properties. This comprehensive analysis supports the claim and completes the proof.

Related Concepts

Rectangle

A quadrilateral with four right angles and opposite sides that are equal in length.

Parallelogram

A four-sided figure (quadrilateral) where opposite sides are parallel and equal in length.

Sas Property

A triangle congruence criterion stating that if two sides and the included angle of one triangle are equal to two sides and the included angle of another triangle, then the two triangles are congruent.

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