What Does Congruent Mean In Math Terms

In this example the shapes are congruent.

What does congruent mean in math terms.

Congruent means that objects have the same shape. If we call our squares square a and square b we can write that they are congruent using the congruency symbol which is an equal sign. More formally two sets of points are called congruent if and only if one can be transformed into the other by an isometry i e a combination of rigid motions namely a translation a rotation and a reflection. Two objects are congruent if they have the same dimensions and shape.

In math we have a special symbol to show congruency. The ability to recognize congruence is important in geometry and other fields that rely on this type of math. People often confuse this word with equal but there is a small difference in the way that these two words should be used. In geometry two figures or objects are congruent if they have the same shape and size or if one has the same shape and size as the mirror image of the other.

Very loosely you can think of it as meaning equal but it has a very precise meaning that you should understand completely especially for complex shapes such as polygons. Congruent angles have the exact same measure for any set of congruent geometric figures corresponding sides angles faces etc. Equal should be used to relate the lengths or measurements of two sides angles or parts of shapes. It does not mean that they are equal exactly.

Maybe because they are only equal when placed on top of each other. Congruent sides or segments have the exact same length. Definition and meaning of the math word congruent. Congruent segments sides and angles are often marked.

While the size and shape of two congruent objects are equal their orientations may be different. Relating to geometric figures that have the same size and shape. Anyway it comes from latin congruere to agree so the shapes agree. Exactly equal in size and shape.

The same shape and size but we are allowed to flip slide or turn.