Question

A trapezoid has a base of 4.5 inches, a height of 6 inches, and an area of 21 square inches. The equation below can be used to determine b2, the length in inches of the second base of the trapezoid.

12(4.5+b2)(6)=21

Answer 1

2.5in

Explanation:

Given parameters;

Base = 4.5inches

Height = 6inches

Area = 21in²

Unknown:

b₂ = ?

Solution:

Formula for finding the area of a trapezium;

A =
`(1)/(2)`
`(b_(1) + b_(2) )` x h

Input the parameters and solve for b₂;

21 =
`(1)/(2)`
`(4.5+ b_(2) )` x 6

21 = 3(4.5 + b₂)

21 = 13.5 + 3b₂

21 - 13.5 = 3b₂

b₂ = 2.5in