Postulate — Geometry, what it means and where it is taught
A statement accepted without proof, such as "two points determine exactly one line."
Taught in Geometry.
Where it is taught
What uses it later
This idea is needed for:
- Theorem — A statement that has been proved from postulates and earlier theorems.
Practise this idea
3 questions in the course bank use Postulate, in Definitions, Postulates & Reasoning.
Problem 1
B is between A and C. AB = 7 and BC = 12. Find AC.
Worked answer
19
AB + BC = AC
7 + 12 = 19
Problem 2
OB is inside ∠ AOC. m∠ AOB = 28° and m∠ AOC = 91°. Find m∠ BOC.
Worked answer
63
28 + m∠ BOC = 91
m∠ BOC = 63°
Problem 3
"Through any two points there is exactly one line" is a
- postulate
- theorem
- definition
- counterexample
Worked answer
postulate
It is assumed without proof.
That makes it a postulate.