Praxis Core Academic Skills for Educators: Mathematics (5733)GeometryMedium
A surveyor is measuring a plot of land that is shaped like an isosceles trapezoid. The parallel sides measure 20 meters and 30 meters, respectively. The height of the trapezoid is 12 meters. What is the area of this plot of land?
- A600 square meters
- B300 square meters
- C360 square meters
- D250 square meters
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 300 square meters
The area of a trapezoid is calculated using the formula A = (1/2) × (b1 + b2) × h, where b1 and b2 are the lengths of the parallel bases and h is the height. Substitute the given values into the formula.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This is incorrect; it might be the product of the average base and twice the height.
- C. This is incorrect; it might result from multiplying the bases and height without averaging.
- D. This is incorrect; it might be a result of an incorrect calculation or formula application.
Area of a Trapezoid
The amount of two-dimensional space enclosed by a trapezoid, calculated using its parallel bases and height.
- A trapezoid has at least one pair of parallel sides (bases).
- The height is the perpendicular distance between the parallel bases.
- Formula: A = (1/2) × (b1 + b2) × h.
Memory trick: Trapezoid area: 'Average' the 'Bases', then 'Height' for the 'Area'!