Prove that ABCD is a parallelogram

In summary, the given equation holds true if and only if the given quadrilateral is a parallelogram, using the fact that collinear vectors of equal magnitude are equal. This is based on the notation of the vertices of the quadrilateral as z_1, z_2, z_3, and z_4.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


Let [tex]z_1[/tex], [tex]z_2[/tex], [tex]z_3[/tex] and [tex]z_4[/tex] be te position vectors of the vertices of quadrilateral AMCD. Prove that ABCD is a parallelogram if and only if [tex]z_1-z_2-z_3+z_4=0[/tex].

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


The solution obviously uses the fact that collinear vectors of equal magnitude are equal, but I get [tex]z_1-z_2+z_3-z_4=0[/tex]. Am I missing something obvious or is it just notations issue with the vertices of the quadrilateral.
 
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  • #2


[itex]z_1- z_2[/itex] is the side from "[itex]z_2[/itex]" to "[itex]z_1[/itex]" and [itex]z_3- z_4[/itex] is the side from "[itex]z_4[/itex]" to "[itex]z_3[/itex]". Since this is a parallelogram those sides are parallel and equal in length. In other words, the vectors are equal: [itex]z_1- z_2= z_3- z_4[/itex] whence [itex]z_1- z_2- z_3+ z_4= 0[/itex]
 
  • #3


That is true only if you haven't numbered the vertics clockwise, but in the form of a 'z' (if you get what I mean). In my picture, [tex]z_1[/tex] is adjacent to [tex]z_2[/tex] and [tex]z_4[/tex], and [tex]z_2[/tex] is adjacent to [tex]z_1[/tex] and [tex]z_3[/tex], so in my case the vector [tex]z_1-z_2[/tex] is opposite to the vector [tex]z_3-z_4[/tex].
 

FAQ: Prove that ABCD is a parallelogram

What is a parallelogram?

A parallelogram is a quadrilateral with two pairs of parallel sides.

What is the condition for a quadrilateral to be a parallelogram?

A quadrilateral must have two pairs of parallel sides in order for it to be a parallelogram.

How can you prove that a quadrilateral is a parallelogram?

A quadrilateral can be proven to be a parallelogram by showing that its opposite sides are parallel and its opposite angles are congruent.

What are the properties of a parallelogram?

The properties of a parallelogram include having two pairs of parallel sides, opposite sides are congruent, opposite angles are congruent, and consecutive angles are supplementary.

Why is it important to prove that a quadrilateral is a parallelogram?

Proving that a quadrilateral is a parallelogram is important because it helps to identify and classify different types of shapes and can be used in various mathematical proofs and calculations.

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