1. What is a Trapezoid Calculator?

The Trapezoid Area Calculator computes the area of a trapezoid using the lengths of its two parallel sides (a and b) and the height (h) between them. A trapezoid is a quadrilateral with at least one pair of parallel sides.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the trapezoid area formula:

Where:

• \( a \) — Length of first parallel side (m)
• \( b \) — Length of second parallel side (m)
• \( h \) — Height (perpendicular distance between parallel sides) (m)

Explanation: The formula averages the lengths of the two parallel sides and multiplies by the height between them.

3. Importance of Area Calculation

Details: Calculating trapezoid area is essential in geometry, architecture, engineering, and construction for determining space and material requirements.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the lengths of both parallel sides and the height between them in meters. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between a trapezoid and trapezium?
A: In North America, a trapezoid has one pair of parallel sides. Outside North America, this shape is often called a trapezium.

Q2: Can I use this for irregular quadrilaterals?
A: No, this formula only works for trapezoids (with at least one pair of parallel sides). For irregular quadrilaterals, other methods like Bretschneider's formula are needed.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses meters, but you can use any unit as long as all measurements are in the same unit.

Q4: How accurate is the calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically exact when precise measurements are input. Results are rounded to 2 decimal places.

Q5: What if I only know the sides but not the height?
A: You'll need to calculate the height first using trigonometry if you know the angles, or Heron's formula if you know all four sides.