Question

two parallel sides, \\(\overline{ab}\\) and \\(\overline{cd}\\), of the trapezoid \\(abcd\\) are 7.3 and 5.5 units long respectively. options: 6.4 units, 6.8 units, 9.1 units (and another partially visible option)

Explanation:

To solve for the length of the midline (or median) of a trapezoid, we use the formula for the midline of a trapezoid, which is the average of the lengths of the two parallel sides (bases). The formula is:

\[
\text{Midline length} = \frac{\text{Length of } \overline{AB} + \text{Length of } \overline{CD}}{2}
\]

Step 1: Identify the lengths of the two bases

We are given that the length of \(\overline{AB}\) is \(7.3\) units and the length of \(\overline{CD}\) is \(5.5\) units.

Step 2: Apply the midline formula

Substitute the given lengths into the formula:

\[
\text{Midline length} = \frac{7.3 + 5.5}{2}
\]

First, add the two lengths:

\[
7.3 + 5.5 = 12.8
\]

Then, divide the sum by 2:

\[
\frac{12.8}{2} = 6.4
\]

Answer:

6.4 units