Similarity

Similarity-

Mike Block, Leah Kramer, Brierlry Logan

Definition of similarity: Same shape different size, it is used when comparing geometric shapes. the symbol for similarity is:~

Types of similarity: When you have 2 angles that are similar in 2 shapes of the same kind, then they are similar shapes. Also if you have 3 sides that are similar to each other then the 2 shapes are similar. (AAA) (SSS)

What you need to know: For 2 triangles to be similar, they must have at least two angles that match, if so, the third angle will also be match. The three angles of a triangle must add up to 180.

Problems you will see: Usually in similarity problems you will see 2 triangles that have 2 angles written in them, but not the same ones, for instance, 1 triangle might have angles 50 and 50, another triangle might have angles 50 and 80, since all triangles angles must add to 180 we can deduct that the triangles are similar because 50+50+80=180.

Common Mistakes: When people are adding up the angles sometimes the addition can go astray and the person will get confused and not get the answer correct. People might assume that the triangles are similar just because they look the same when in reality they are different.