Trapezoid Calculator

Calculate area, find height, or find a missing base

Top Base = 8 cmBottom Base = 12 cmHeight = 6 cmA = 60 cm²
120
120
120

Area of Trapezoid

60.00

Formula

A = ½ × (a + b) × h

📐 Formula

A = ½ × (a + b) × h

Area = ½ × (Top Base + Bottom Base) × Height

Top Base (a)8 cm
Bottom Base (b)12 cm
Height (h)6 cm
Area60.00 cm²

📝 Step-by-Step

1.Formula: A = ½ × (a + b) × h
2.Add bases: a + b = 8 + 12 = 20
3.Multiply: A = ½ × 20 × 6 = 60
Answer: A = 60.00 cm²

💡 Did you know?A trapezoid is also called a trapezium in some countries! The formula works for any trapezoid, regardless of its shape.

📖 Learn More

What is a Trapezoid Area Calculator?

A trapezoid area calculator is a tool that helps you find the area of a trapezoid quickly and accurately. Whether you're a student learning geometry, a teacher preparing lessons, or a professional needing quick calculations, this tool makes it easy.

Formula

A = ½ × (a + b) × h

Where A = Area, a = Top Base, b = Bottom Base, h = Height

Example

Example: Find the area of a trapezoid with top base 8 cm, bottom base 12 cm, and height 6 cm

A = ½ × (a + b) × h

A = ½ × (8 + 12) × 6

A = ½ × 20 × 6

A = 60 cm²

Common Uses

  • Construction: Calculating areas for roofs, foundations, and irregular lots
  • Architecture: Designing trapezoidal windows, doors, and building features
  • Engineering: Calculating cross-sections of beams and channels
  • Land Surveying: Measuring irregular land plots and boundaries
  • Education: Students learning geometry and area calculations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a trapezoid and a parallelogram?

A trapezoid has exactly one pair of parallel sides (the bases). A parallelogram has two pairs of parallel sides. They are different types of quadrilaterals.

Why do we divide by 2 in the formula?

Dividing by 2 comes from the fact that a trapezoid's area is the average of the two bases multiplied by the height. It's essentially the average of the top and bottom lengths.

Is a trapezoid called a trapezium in some countries?

Yes! In British English and many other countries, a trapezoid is called a 'trapezium.' The terminology varies by region.