Question

find the area of this irregular shape. begin by dividing this shape into smaller rectangles. how many rectangles do you see? a) 3 b) 2 c) 1 hint: a square is a special type of rectangle.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the shape division

Looking at the irregular shape, we can divide it into three rectangles? Wait, no, let's check again. Wait, the top rectangle (4 cm by 10 cm), then a middle rectangle (2 cm by (8 - 4) cm? Wait, no, maybe better: the top is one rectangle (4x10), then the middle vertical part (2x(8 - 4)? No, wait the bottom right is a square (4x4), and the middle vertical part (2x(8 - 4)? Wait, no, actually, when we look at the shape, we can see three rectangles? Wait, no, the options are 3, 2, or 1. Wait, let's re - examine. The top is a rectangle (4 cm height, 10 cm length). Then the lower part: the vertical strip (2 cm width, and the height from the bottom of the top rectangle to the top of the square? Wait, the square is 4x4, and the vertical strip is 2 cm wide and (8 - 4) = 4 cm tall? No, maybe a better way: the shape can be divided into three rectangles? Wait, no, the options are A)3, B)2, C)1. Wait, actually, if we look at the shape, we can divide it into three rectangles? Wait, no, let's see: the top rectangle (4x10), then a middle rectangle (2x(8 - 4))? No, the bottom right is a square (4x4), and the middle vertical part (2x(8 - 4))? Wait, no, maybe the correct division is three? Wait, no, the hint says a square is a special rectangle. Wait, let's count: the top rectangle (1), the middle vertical rectangle (2), and the bottom square (3). So we use 3 rectangles. Wait, but let's check the options. Option A is 3.

Step2: Confirm the division

By visually inspecting the irregular shape, we can identify three distinct rectangular (including square, as square is a special rectangle) regions: the top horizontal rectangle, the middle vertical rectangle, and the bottom square - shaped rectangle. So the number of rectangles used is 3.

Answer:

A) 3