The equation in the image is:

$A = \frac{1}{2} h(a + b)$

This formula is commonly used to find the area $A$ of a trapezoid, where:

• $h$ is the height of the trapezoid,
• $a$ and $b$ are the lengths of the two parallel sides (the bases).

It works by averaging the lengths of the two bases $a$ and $b$, multiplying by the height $h$, and then multiplying the result by $\frac{1}{2}$.

Would you like more details or have any questions about this equation?

Here are five related questions:

1. How do you derive this formula for the area of a trapezoid?
2. How would this formula change if the trapezoid had equal bases?
3. Can this formula be applied to any quadrilateral? Why or why not?
4. How do you calculate the height of a trapezoid if it’s not given?
5. What are some real-life applications where this formula might be useful?

Tip: Always make sure to verify that the shape is indeed a trapezoid (having two parallel sides) before applying this formula!