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 $A = \frac{1}{2}(b_1 + b_2)h$, where $b_1$ and $b_2$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides, and $h$ is the height between them.

Step2: Identify values from the diagram

Here, $b_1 = 5$ in, $b_2 = 13$ in, and $h = 8$ in.

Step3: Substitute values into formula

$$A = \frac{1}{2}(5 + 13) \times 8$$

Step4: Calculate the result

First compute the sum inside the parentheses: $5 + 13 = 18$.
Then calculate $\frac{1}{2} \times 18 = 9$.
Finally, $9 \times 8 = 72$. The unit for area is square inches, so $\text{in}^2$.

Answer:

72 $\text{in}^2$