Let's calculate the area of the figure

Question

Let's calculate the area of the figure

https://ibb.co/7NkBK7h7

Answer 1

First you need to recognize the figure. This is trapezoid, because AD is perpendicular to both AB and DC, making AB || DC.

The area of a trapezoid can be found using this formula A=¹/₂h(b₁+b₂). For this trapezoid, that would look like A=¹/₂(3)(6+8)

Simplifying that gives us A=21 cm². Always include your units, which will always be squared for area, because two dimensions are always multiplied for area.

Answer 2

The area of any figure is the amount of square units that could fit inside it. Area is only a two-dimensional measurement. For example, the area inside a rectangular backyard fence can be calculated by multiplying the length and width of the fence. If the fence is 50 ft long and 40 ft wide, you would multiply 50 x 40 = 200. Area is always two-dimensional, and thus the answer would reflect the two units and be 200 square feet.

Therefore, every area answer is always in square units to reflect the two dimensions being used. Plus, when calculating area, you must have both of the units being multiplied represented in the same manner. (ex. 20 in x 30 in = 600 square inches or 5 cm x 7 cm = 35 square cm). Finally, several shapes have different formulas to calculate their area. A square is length x width. But a triangle is 1/2 length x width, since it is only half of a square, and in finding the area of a figure, we are trying to find the number of square units that can fit inside of it. Thus, you need to look up the formula for finding the area of the figure you are trying to solve for to help you get the square units that fit inside of it, and then just do the math.

Now don't get area confused with volume. Volume is a three-dimensional measurement and must be found by using three units and multiplying them together to get a final answer in cubic units. Math can sound confusing, but can be made simple by just applying your thoughts and the terminology involved to something in everyday life that might need solving. For example, figuring out the area of a wall to know how much paint to buy (length x height). Finding the volume of an appropriate storage container to fit all of your stuff in when moving (length x width x height). By thinking about simple measurements, you will have a better understanding as to figure out even more complicated measurements or odd-shaped figures.