The area of a trapezoid can be calculated using the formula:

$\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (b_1 + b_2) \times h$

Where:

• $b_1$ and $b_2$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides (the bases),
• $h$ is the height (the perpendicular distance between the two parallel sides).

From the image you provided:

• The top base ($b_1$) is 10 ft,
• The bottom base ($b_2$) is 12 ft,
• The height ($h$) is 6 ft.

Now, let's substitute these values into the formula:

$\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (10 + 12) \times 6$ $\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times 22 \times 6$ $\text{Area} = 11 \times 6 = 66 \text{ square feet}$

So, the area of the trapezoid is 66 square feet.

Let me know if you'd like further clarification or if you have any more questions!

1. How do I calculate the area of other shapes, such as parallelograms or triangles?
2. What other formulas involve the same approach of adding two measurements and multiplying by a height or length?
3. Can I apply this method to irregular quadrilaterals?
4. How do I calculate the perimeter of a trapezoid?
5. What happens to the area of the trapezoid if the height changes?

Tip: Always ensure the height is perpendicular to the parallel sides for the area formula to work correctly.