Question

find the area of this trapezoid. be sure to include the correct unit in your answer.

Explanation:

Step1: Recall trapezoid area formula

The area of a trapezoid is given by $\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (b_1 + b_2) \times h$, where $b_1$ and $b_2$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides, and $h$ is the height between them.

Step2: Identify known values

Here, $b_1 = 8\ \text{m}$, $b_2 = 20\ \text{m}$, $h = 9\ \text{m}$.

Step3: Substitute values into formula

$$\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (8 + 20) \times 9$$

Step4: Calculate step-by-step

First compute the sum of the bases: $8 + 20 = 28$.
Then calculate $\frac{1}{2} \times 28 = 14$.
Finally multiply by the height: $14 \times 9 = 126$.

Answer:

$126\ \text{m}^2$