Triangle Sum Theorem


In these lessons, we will learn

  • the Triangle Sum Theorem (with worksheets)
  • how to prove the Triangle Sum Theorem
  • how to solve problems using the Triangle Sum Theorem



Share this page to Google Classroom

Related Pages
Angles In A Triangle
More Geometry Lessons
Geometry Worksheets

The following diagram shows the Triangle Sum Theorem. Scroll down the page for examples and solutions using the Triangle Sum Theorem.

Triangle Sum Theorem
 

The Triangle Sum Theorem states that

The sum of the three interior angles in a triangle is always 180°.

The Triangle Sum Theorem is also called the Triangle Angle Sum Theorem or Angle Sum Theorem.

triangle sum theorem
 

Example:
Find the value of x in the following triangle.


 

Solution:
x + 24° + 32° = 180° (sum of angles is 180°)
x + 56° = 180°
x = 180° – 56° = 124°

Worksheet 1,
Worksheet 2 using Triangle Sum Theorem




Proof of the Triangle Sum Theorem

How to prove that the sum of the angles of a triangle is 180 degrees (Triangle Sum Theorem)?
This is a two-column proof that involves parallel lines and the alternate angle theorem.

How to prove the Triangle Sum Theorem using right triangles?
We will start with right triangles, and then expand our proof later to include all triangles.

Solving problems using the Triangle Sum Theorem

The following videos show more examples of how to solve problems related to the triangle sum theorem using Algebra.

How to Find the Missing Angle in a Triangle Using the Triangle Sum Theorem?
Step 1. Write out the equation by adding all the angles and making them equal to 180°
Step 2. Solve for x.
Step 3: Substitute to find the missing angles.

Use the triangle sum theorem to find the base angle measures given the vertex angle in an isosceles triangle



Solve for angles using the Triangle Sum Theorem

Example:
Using the diagram shown, find the value of x and the measure of each missing angle in the triangle.

Triangle Properties

Example:
Find the values of x and y for a given triangle problem. This problem uses the Triangle Sum Theorem and the Corollary to the Triangle Sum Theorem.

Triangle Properties

Example:
Find the values of x and y for a given triangle problem. This problem involves linear pair angles as well as the Triangle Sum Theorem.

Solve for angles using the Triangle Sum Theorem and ratios

Example:
The measures of the angles of a triangle are in the ratio 2:5:8. Find the measure of each angle.



Try the free Mathway calculator and problem solver below to practice various math topics. Try the given examples, or type in your own problem and check your answer with the step-by-step explanations.
Mathway Calculator Widget



We welcome your feedback, comments and questions about this site or page. Please submit your feedback or enquiries via our Feedback page.