Question

How do I solve for the area of this shape?

Answer 1

The equation for the area of a trapezoid is
`A = (1)/(2)h(a+b)`, where A=area, a & b = lengths of your bases (aka the parallel sides of your trapezoid), and h = height of the trapezoid.

You're given 4.4yd and 9yd as the length of your bases. Choose one to be your variable a and choose the other to be b, doesn't matter! I'll say a = 4.4yd and b = 9yd. The height you're given is h = 3.8yd. Plug these values into the equation for the area of a trapezoid and solve for A, the area:

`A = (1)/(2)h(a+b)\\ A = (1)/(2)(3.8yd)(4.4yd+9yd)\\ A = (1)/(2)(3.8yd)(13.4yd)\\ A = (1)/(2)(50.92yd^(2) )\\ A = 25.46 yd^(2)`

The area of your trapezoid is
`A = 25.46 yd^(2)`.