Question

find the area of this trapezoid. be sure to include the correct unit in your answer.
(the trapezoid has top base 3 in, height 4 in, bottom base 17 in, and a side of 7 in. there is also a text box for input and unit options: in, in², in³)

Explanation:

Step1: Recall trapezoid area formula

The formula for the area of a trapezoid is $A = \frac{1}{2}(b_1 + b_2)h$, where $b_1$ and $b_2$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides (bases), and $h$ is the height (the perpendicular distance between the bases).

Step2: Identify $b_1$, $b_2$, and $h$

From the diagram, $b_1 = 3$ in (the top base), $b_2 = 17$ in (the bottom base), and $h = 4$ in (the height).

Step3: Substitute values into the formula

Substitute $b_1 = 3$, $b_2 = 17$, and $h = 4$ into the formula:

$$\begin{align*} A&=\frac{1}{2}(3 + 17)\times4\\ &=\frac{1}{2}(20)\times4\\ &= 10\times4\\ &= 40 \end{align*}$$

The unit for area is square inches, so the unit is $\text{in}^2$.

Answer:

40 in²