Thales' Theorem and Parallel Lines
This page presents a comprehensive exploration of Thales' theorem and its reciprocal, focusing on parallel lines and nested triangles. The content demonstrates practical applications through detailed examples and calculations.
Definition: Thales' theorem states that if two lines are cut by parallel lines, the corresponding segments are proportional.
Example: A detailed problem is presented with the following measurements:
- AB = 5.4 cm
- AD = 7.2 cm
- AC = 6.6 cm
- AE = 8.8 cm
Highlight: The problem demonstrates how to prove that lines (BC) and (DE) are parallel using ratio comparisons.
Vocabulary:
- Emboîtés: Nested triangles
- Perpendiculaire: Perpendicular
- Parallèles: Parallel lines
Quote: "D'après la réciproque du théorème de Thales les droites (BC) et (DE) sont parallèles" (According to the reciprocal of Thales' theorem, lines (BC) and (DE) are parallel)
The page includes detailed calculations showing how to verify the equality of ratios:
- AB/AD = 5.4/7.2 = 0.75
- AC/AE = 6.6/8.8 = 0.75
This equality of ratios confirms that the lines are indeed parallel, demonstrating the practical application of the theorem's reciprocal.