Answer:
80 cm²
Explanation:
Let's break down the composite shape into two parts. (Image attached)
- Let "a" represent the area of the smaller square.
- Let "b" represent the area of the bigger square
⇒ The side length of "a" is 4 cm.
⇒ The side length of "b" is 8 cm.
First, let's find the area of square "a". Keep in mind that the area of a square is the side multiplied by itself.
⇒ (Side)² = A
⇒ (4)² = Area of "a"
⇒ (4)(4) = Area of "a"
⇒ 16 cm² = Area of "a"
Next, find the area of square "b". Keep in mind that the area of a square is the side multiplied by itself.
⇒ (Side)² = A
⇒ (8)² = Area of "b"
⇒ (8)(8) = Area of "b"
⇒ 64 cm² = Area of "b"
Finally, let's sum up the area of square "a" and "b" to find the area of the composite shape.
⇒ Area of composite shape = Area of "a" + Area of "b"
⇒ Area of composite shape = 16 + 64
⇒ Area of composite shape = 80 cm²