Question

what is the surface area of this triangular prism?
20 ft.
16 ft.
24 ft.
20 ft.
8 ft.
____ square feet

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate area of 2 triangular bases

The area of one triangle is $\frac{1}{2} \times 24 \times 16 = 192$ square feet. For two triangles: $2 \times 192 = 384$ square feet.

Step2: Calculate area of 3 rectangular faces

• Face 1: $24 \times 8 = 192$ square feet
• Face 2: $20 \times 8 = 160$ square feet
• Face 3: $20 \times 8 = 160$ square feet

Sum of rectangular areas: $192 + 160 + 160 = 512$ square feet.

Step3: Total surface area, sum all areas

Add the area of the triangular bases and rectangular faces.
$384 + 512 = 896$

Answer:

896 square feet