1. What is the Right Trapezoid Side Formula?

The Right Trapezoid Side Formula calculates the length of the non-parallel side (slanted side) in a right trapezoid using the Pythagorean theorem. A right trapezoid is a quadrilateral with two parallel bases and two right angles.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( h \) — Height of the trapezoid (m)
• \( b \) — Length of the long base (m)
• \( a \) — Length of the short base (m)

Explanation: The formula applies the Pythagorean theorem to the right triangle formed by the height, the difference in base lengths, and the slanted side.

3. Importance of Side Calculation

Details: Calculating the side length is essential in geometry, construction, and engineering applications where precise measurements of trapezoidal shapes are required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter height and both base lengths in meters. All values must be positive, and the long base must be longer than the short base.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a right trapezoid?
A: A right trapezoid is a quadrilateral with two parallel bases and two adjacent right angles.

Q2: Can this formula be used for any trapezoid?
A: No, this specific formula applies only to right trapezoids where the height is perpendicular to both bases.

Q3: What if my bases are equal length?
A: If bases are equal, the shape becomes a rectangle, and the side length equals the height.

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: The calculation is mathematically precise when accurate measurements are provided.

Q5: Can I use different units of measurement?
A: Yes, as long as all measurements use the same unit (e.g., all in centimeters or all in inches).