All courses Math II · G-SRT.5 50 of 73
Use triangle congruence and similarity criteria to solve problems and prove geometric relationships.

Prove triangles congruent using a valid criterion

Problem
Three corresponding side pairs in two triangles are congruent, with no angle information supplied. Name the congruence criterion this evidence satisfies and justify the match.
Unworked triangle geometry showing exactly the supplied side, angle, scale, or context evidence. Open full size
Your answer
Show answer choicesAnswer choices Work through the mathematics first, then compare your reasoning.Select the answer that matches your work.
Answer choices
With a free account

Stop now. Continue later.

A saved learning session lets you leave when you need to and return without losing your place.

Create a free account
With paid access

Make a more precise practice set.

Choose from the complete range of objectives and problem types in your subscribed course when building a session.

Compare plans

Hint

Count how many side pairs are given and check whether any angles are involved.

If all three corresponding side pairs are congruent, the matching triangle congruence criterion is SSS.

Solution walkthrough

01

Inventory the evidence

\[\text{three}~\text{pairs}~\text{of}~\text{corresponding}~\text{sides}~\text{are}~\text{congruent};~\text{no}~\text{angle}~\text{data}\]

The tick marks form three distinct matching classes, covering every side of both triangles.

02

Match evidence to criterion

\[\text{side}-\text{side}-\text{side}~->~SSS~\text{congruence}\]

SSS congruence requires exactly three pairs of corresponding congruent sides and does not require any angle information.

03

Preserve the correspondence

\[AB<->DE;~BC<->EF;~AC<->DF\]

The one-, two-, and three-tick marks identify these respective side pairs.

04

State the conclusion

\[\text{triangles}~\text{congruent}~\text{by}~SSS\]

Three side equalities determine the same size and shape, so the relationship is congruence rather than similarity alone.

+

Another way

  1. Count the matched side classes: one tick, two ticks, and three ticks produce the three S's in SSS.

!

Common mistake

Do not choose SAS merely because sides meet at angles. SAS needs a stated congruent included-angle pair, which is absent here.

Completed triangle geometry with justified criterion, correspondence, calculation, or sufficiency result.
Displayed ticks and arcs identify the congruence criterion and included/non-included placement.