Step-by-Step Guide: How to Calculate the Area of a Trapezoid using the Formula

Trapezoid Area

To find the area of a trapezoid, you can use the formula:

Area = (1/2) × (base1 + base2) × height

Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating the area of a trapezoid:

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To find the area of a trapezoid, you can use the formula:

Area = (1/2) × (base1 + base2) × height

Here’s a step-by-step guide to calculating the area of a trapezoid:

1. Identify the bases: The trapezoid has two parallel sides. These sides are called the bases. Let’s label them as base1 and base2.

2. Measure the height: The height of a trapezoid is the perpendicular distance between the bases. Measure this distance accurately.

3. Calculate the base sum: Add the lengths of base1 and base2 to get the base sum.

4. Multiply the base sum by the height: Multiply the base sum obtained in step 3 by the height measured in step 2.

5. Divide the product by 2: Divide the product obtained in step 4 by 2 to get the final area of the trapezoid.

Let’s work through an example:

Suppose the length of base1 is 5 units, base2 is 9 units, and the height is 8 units.

1. Identify the bases:
Base1 = 5 units
Base2 = 9 units

2. Measure the height:
Height = 8 units

3. Calculate the base sum:
Base sum = Base1 + Base2
= 5 + 9
= 14 units

4. Multiply the base sum by the height:
Product = Base sum × Height
= 14 × 8
= 112 square units

5. Divide the product by 2:
Area = Product / 2
= 112 / 2
= 56 square units

Therefore, the area of the trapezoid is 56 square units.

Remember to include the units when giving your final answer as the area is always expressed in square units.

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