An acute angle is one of the most common and important types of angles in geometry. The acute angle definition states that any angle measuring less than 90° is considered an acute angle. From shapes to real-life objects like clock hands or pizza slices, acute angle examples are found everywhere. In this article, we will explore the meaning, measurement, formulas, and applications of acute angles, especially within an acute angle triangle.
Table of Contents
An acute angle is any angle that is less than 90 degrees. It is smaller than a right angle and can range between greater than 0° and less than 90°. In simple words, it’s a narrow angle. For example, ∠30°, ∠45°, and ∠75° are all acute angle examples.
In geometry, acute angles often appear in triangles, parallelograms, and trapezoids, making them essential in understanding 2D shapes.
The acute angle degree range is from 0° to less than 90°. Below are some common acute angles:
15°
33°
45°
67°
80°
All of these fall under the acute angle category because they are smaller than a right angle (90°).
Here are a few practical acute angle examples:
∠A = 25° → Acute
∠B = 65° → Acute
∠C = 90° → Not acute
∠D = 120° → Not acute
Acute angle examples are also seen in:
The “V” shape in letters
Pizza slices
Hour and minute hands at 1 o’clock
An acute angle triangle is a triangle where all three internal angles measure less than 90°.
Example:
A triangle with angles 60°, 55°, and 65° is an acute angle triangle because all the angles are acute.
Every acute angle triangle satisfies these conditions:
Sum of angles = 180°
Each angle < 90°
Some important properties of acute angle triangle are:
All internal angles are < 90°
All equilateral triangles are acute triangles
It can be scalene, isosceles, or equilateral
The square of the longest side is less than the sum of squares of the other two sides
For sides a, b, c:
a² + b² > c²
b² + c² > a²
c² + a² > b²
These properties make the acute angle triangle a common shape in both geometry and construction.
A parallelogram has opposite sides equal and parallel. In many cases, it includes two acute angles and two obtuse angles.
Example:
In a parallelogram with angles 70°, 110°, 70°, and 110°, the 70° angles are acute angles.
A trapezoid can also have acute angles. For example, if one pair of opposite sides are parallel and two of the corners are less than 90°, they are acute angles.
Example:
A trapezoid with angles 65°, 65°, 115°, and 115° has two acute angles.
You can find acute angles all around you:
Pizza slice corners
Arrows on road signs
The hands of a clock at 1:00
The sharp "V" in bird flight patterns
Scissors when partly open
These examples show that understanding acute angle is not just academic - it’s useful in everyday life.
Feature |
Acute Angle |
Obtuse Angle |
Measurement |
Less than 90° |
More than 90°, less than 180° |
In Triangles |
Can have 3 acute angles |
Only one obtuse angle possible |
Visual Appearance |
Narrow and sharp |
Wide and spread out |
Real-life Examples |
Pizza slice, letter “V” |
Open book, leaning signboards |
This comparison helps clearly distinguish between acute angle and obtuse angles.
Is 45° an acute angle?
Classify 70°, 90°, and 110° as acute, right, or obtuse.
What is the range of acute angle degrees?
In triangle ABC, if ∠A = 80°, ∠B = 50°, find ∠C. Is it acute?
Can a triangle have two acute angles and one right angle?
Related Links :
Angle Definition : Learn how angles form the foundation of geometry with easy explanations and real-life examples at Orchids International School.
Angles In Shape : Explore how angles define triangles, polygons, and more - only at Orchids The International School!
The acute angle is an essential geometric concept, appearing in triangles, polygons, and real-world shapes. With a measurement always less than 90°, acute angles help define many mathematical relationships and shape properties. Whether it’s an acute angle triangle or identifying real-life acute angle examples, mastering this concept builds a strong foundation in geometry.
Ans.An acute angle is any angle measuring less than 90°.
Ans. Yes, angles between 0° and less than 90° are considered acute.
Ans.No. 90° is a right angle. Acute angles must be less than 90°.
Ans.Yes. All three angles in an acute angle triangle are less than 90°.
Ans.Absolutely! Acute angles are used in roof designs, bridges, and road signage.
Master angles and triangles with visual aids, practice questions, and interactive tools at Orchids International.