Stage 17 · Similarity & Dilation

17.2.3 A Line Parallel to One Side of a Triangle

17.2 Parallel Lines Cut Segments Proportionally

Point 3 of 4

17.2.3 A Line Parallel to One Side of a Triangle

Core idea

Draw a line across a triangle parallel to its base, and the two other sides get split by the same ratio, giving AD:DB=AE:EC.

Module goal. Using the parallel lines you already know well as a tool, we discover that 'parallel lines slice by the same ratio,' which is the direct source of the tests for similar triangles.
eastmath.com · 17.2 Parallel Lines Cut Segments Proportionally · 17.2.3 A Line Parallel to One Side of a Triangle