What defines complementary angles?

Complementary angles are defined as two angles whose measures add up to 90 degrees. This relationship is fundamental in geometry, particularly when dealing with right angles, as each right angle measures exactly 90 degrees. Therefore, if two angles are complementary, together they form a right angle.

Understanding complementary angles is important in various geometric applications, such as in right triangles, where the two non-right angles are always complementary. This concept also extends to practical scenarios such as architecture and engineering, where precise angle measurements are crucial.

In contrast, other definitions provided, such as angles that add up to 180 degrees or defining angle relationships based on equal measures or right angles, pertain to different types of angle relationships, specifically supplementary angles or specific properties of angles. Recognizing the precise definition of complementary angles helps clarify their role in geometric principles.