Calculate the Perimeter of a Trapezoid: 10 and 12 Parallel Sides

Perimeter Calculation with Trapezoid Measurements

Look at the trapezoid in the diagram.

101010777121212777

What is its perimeter?

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Step-by-step video solution

Watch the teacher solve the problem with clear explanations
00:00 Calculate the perimeter of the trapezoid
00:03 Side values according to the given data
00:12 The perimeter of the trapezoid equals the sum of its sides
00:27 Let's substitute appropriate values and solve to find the perimeter
00:41 And this is the solution to the question

Step-by-step written solution

Follow each step carefully to understand the complete solution
1

Understand the problem

Look at the trapezoid in the diagram.

101010777121212777

What is its perimeter?

2

Step-by-step solution

In order to calculate the perimeter of the trapezoid we must add together the measurements of all of its sides:

7+10+7+12 =

36

And that's the solution!

3

Final Answer

36

Key Points to Remember

Essential concepts to master this topic
  • Perimeter Rule: Add all four side lengths of the trapezoid together
  • Technique: Sum parallel sides and non-parallel sides: 10 + 12 + 7 + 7
  • Check: Count all sides in diagram and verify sum: 4 sides total โœ“

Common Mistakes

Avoid these frequent errors
  • Only adding the parallel sides
    Don't just add 10 + 12 = 22! This ignores the two non-parallel sides and gives an incomplete perimeter. Always include all four sides of the trapezoid: both parallel sides plus both slanted sides.

Practice Quiz

Test your knowledge with interactive questions

Given the trapezoid:

999121212555AAABBBCCCDDDEEE

What is the area?

FAQ

Everything you need to know about this question

Why do I need to add all four sides?

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Perimeter means the distance around the entire shape! Just like walking around the outside of the trapezoid, you must travel along every single side to complete the journey.

What if the trapezoid has different side lengths?

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No problem! Just add whatever lengths are given. In this case: 7 + 10 + 7 + 12 = 36. The method stays the same regardless of the actual measurements.

How can I remember which sides are parallel?

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Look for sides that never meet even if extended! In this trapezoid, the top side (10) and bottom side (12) are parallel because they go in the same direction.

Do I need to know the trapezoid's area to find perimeter?

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Not at all! Perimeter only needs the side lengths, while area needs height and base measurements. These are completely separate calculations.

What if I can't see all the side measurements clearly?

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Make sure to examine the diagram carefully. Each side should have a number label. In this problem, you can see 10, 12, 7, and 7 marked on the four sides.

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