Parallel lines help us to understand the path of the objects and sides of the various shapes. Perpendicular lines help us calculate height and distances. Intersecting lines help us identify angles but how can you identify parallel, perpendicular, and intersecting lines? What do they look like? What are their symbols? On this page you will learn how to define and differentiate parallel, perpendicular, and intersecting lines.
Parallel lines
These are two lines which do not intersect each other at any point in the plane. The lines are not always equal in length but are always equal in distance from each other or “equidistant”. Parallel lines are represented by the symbol ‘||.’
Examples of parallel lines:
Perpendicular lines
These are two lines which create a right angle at the point of their intersection. The lines always intersect at 90 degrees but not all intersecting lines are perpendicular. Perpendicular lines are represented by the symbol ‘⊥.’
Examples of perpendicular lines:
Intersecting lines
These are two lines which intersect at a common point in a plane. The common point is called intersection point. Intersecting lines are not represented by any symbol.
Examples of intersecting lines:
Conclusion
Parallel, perpendicular, and intersecting lines have their own unique properties. Parallel lines never meet. They are equidistant to each other. Perpendicular lines meet at 90 degrees. Perpendicular lines are intersecting lines that connect at a right angle. Intersecting lines meet at any point once and they cross at the intersection point.