Area of a Trapezoid

A step-by-step guide to finding the area of a trapezoid

To determine the area of a trapezoid, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Multiply the sum of the bases (the parallel sides) by the height (the perpendicular distance between the bases)
Step 2: Divide the product by 2.
So, the area of a trapezoid$=\frac{1}{2}×$(Sum of parallel sides)$×$(perpendicular distance in between the parallel sides).

Definition of the Area of a Trapezoid – Example 1

What is the area of this trapezoid?

Solution:
According to the area of a trapezoid:
Step 1: Add the parallel sides. $14+11=25$
Step 2: Multiply it by the perpendicular distance between the parallel sides. $25×8=200$
Step 3: Multiply the product by $\frac{1}{2}$.
$\frac{1}{2}×200=100$. So, the area of this trapezoid is $100 cm^2$.

Definition of the Area of a Trapezoid – Example 2

What is the area of this trapezoid?

Solution:
According to the area of a trapezoid:
Step 1: Add the parallel sides. $12+8=20$
Step 2: Multiply it by the perpendicular distance between the parallel sides. $20×3=60$
Step 3: Multiply the product by $\frac{1}{2}$.
$\frac{1}{2}×60=30$. So, the area of this trapezoid is $60 yd^2$.