What are vertical angles?

Vertical angles are defined as the pairs of angles that are directly opposite each other when two lines intersect. When two lines cross, they create four angles, and each pair of opposite angles is equal in measure. This property arises from the intersection of the lines, where the angles are formed by the same pairs of arms extending from the intersection point.

Understanding vertical angles is crucial because they hold a fundamental place in geometry, demonstrating the relationships between angles created by intersecting lines. The fact that vertical angles are always equal can be a helpful theorem in solving many problems related to angles and their measures. This concept is distinct from other types of angles, such as complementary angles, which are two angles whose measures add up to 90 degrees, or angles formed from parallel lines, which often result in different relationships such as alternate interior or corresponding angles.