ABCTE Master of Science in Education (MSE) Practice Exam

The correct term for coplanar lines that do not intersect is "parallel lines." Parallel lines are defined as two or more lines that are in the same plane and remain equidistant from each other at all points, ensuring that they will never meet or intersect, regardless of how far they are extended.

Understanding parallel lines is essential in various areas of mathematics and geometry, as they have unique properties that influence the behavior of shapes and angles formed by transversals intersecting with them. For instance, angles formed when a transversal crosses parallel lines have specific relationships, such as alternate interior angles being equal.

In contrast, skew lines are lines that do not intersect and are not coplanar, meaning they exist in different planes. Perpendicular lines intersect at a right angle, and oblique lines are lines that do intersect but are not at right angles, which makes them different from the definition of parallel lines. Therefore, recognizing the distinction is crucial for accurately identifying geometric relationships.