A parallelogram consists of two diagonals, each with its own calculation method. Follow our detailed instructions below to master computing the diagonals of parallelograms.
Formula for calculating the diagonal of a parallelogram
For detailed definitions, identification signs, and properties, you can refer to the Wikipedia article on Parallelograms to gain further understanding.
Characteristics of the diagonals of a parallelogram
- The diagonals intersect at the midpoint of each other.
- The lengths of the diagonals of a parallelogram are not equal and are not perpendicular to each other.
- A parallelogram with two equal diagonals is a rectangle.
- A parallelogram with diagonals perpendicular to each other is a rhombus.
General formula for calculating the diagonal of a parallelogram
Problem: Given two sides and the length of a diagonal of a parallelogram, calculate the remaining diagonal
Problem Statement: Parallelogram ABCD has AB = 6 cm, BC = 7 cm, BD = 8 cm. Find AC.
Instructions:
- Let I be the intersection of diagonals AC and BD => AI is the median of triangle ABD
- Calculate the length of AI: Use the median formula
=> AI2 = (AB2 + AD2) : 2 - (BD2 : 4)
- Calculate the length of AC: Since I is the midpoint of AC, AC = 2.AI
- Conclusion.
Follow the above hints, substitute values, and solve this exercise on your own.
Extended problem related to the diagonal of a parallelogram
* Consider the following problem: Prove that a quadrilateral with two equal diagonals intersecting at their midpoints is a parallelogram.
Instructions: For this problem, follow these steps:
Consider quadrilateral ABCD, let O be the intersection of diagonals AC and BD
=> OA = OC
OB = OD
Consider triangles OAD and OBC:
OA = OC
OB = OD
∠AOD = ∠BOC (due to opposite angles)
=> Triangle OAD ≅ Triangle OBC
=> ∠OAD = ∠OBC
Since these angles are alternate interior angles,
AD // BC
and AD = BC (due to congruent triangles)
=> Quadrilateral ABCD is a parallelogram.
Above is the method we introduce to readers for calculating the diagonal of a parallelogram. To excel in solving this exercise, remember to memorize the formulas and grasp the techniques to best complete these exercises and apply them to problems related to calculating the area of parallelograms. Parents can also refer to our materials to effectively guide their children's home study.