\[\begin{aligned}
A &= \frac{(b_1+b_2)h}{2} \\
m &= \frac{b_1+b_2}{2}
\end{aligned}\]
Variables
Aarea
mmidsegment length
b1lower base
b2upper base
hheight
Description
What is this formula?
This set of formulas calculates the area and midsegment length of a trapezoid using its two parallel bases and height.
When to use it
Use these formulas in geometry, construction, engineering, and drafting when working with trapezoidal shapes and cross-sections.
Example
For a trapezoid with bases 10 m and 6 m, and height 4 m:
Area:
A = ((10+6)*4)/2 = 32 m²
Midsegment:
m = (10+6)/2 = 8 m
Applications
- Structural engineering
- Bridge and roof design
- Land surveying
- CAD and geometric modeling
- Cross-sectional area calculations