ISEE Upper Level Math : How to find the perimeter of a trapezoid

Study concepts, example questions & explanations for ISEE Upper Level Math

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Example Questions

Example Question #1 : Trapezoids

The bigger base length of a trapezoid is two times bigger than the smaller base length. Legs of the trapezoid have the same length of . If the perimeter of the trapezoid is , give the length of the smaller base.

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

Like any polygon, the perimeter of a trapezoid is the total distance around the outside, i.e.

,

where are the lengths of each side.

Let small base length and big base length. 

Example Question #2 : Trapezoids

The perimeter of the following trapezoid is .

The following is given:

Find .

Figure not drawn to scale.

 Trapezoidr

Possible Answers:

Correct answer:

Explanation:

The perimeter of a trapezoid is equal to the sum of all of the sides, i.e.

,

where are the lengths of each side. 

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