How to Calculate the Area of a Rectangle: Examples and Formulas

The area of a rectangle is a fundamental concept in geometry that can be calculated using a simple formula. In this article, we will explore what a rectangle is, how to find its area, and provide examples to illustrate the process.

What is a Rectangle?

A rectangle is a two-dimensional shape with four sides, where all internal angles are right angles (90 degrees). The dimensions of a rectangle are length (L) and width (W), which can be expressed in units such as inches, feet, or meters. A square is a special type of rectangle where all sides have equal lengths.

Formula for Area of Rectangle

The formula to calculate the area of a rectangle is:

A = L * W

Where:

A - area

L - length

W - width

This formula is simple and easy to apply, as we will see in the examples below.

Examples: Finding the Area of a Rectangle

Let's consider some examples where we are given the area and one dimension of a rectangle, and need to find the other dimension.

Example 1: Find the length of a rectangle with an area of 12 square inches and a width of 3 inches.

Using the formula above, we can calculate the length:

A = L * W

12 = L * 3

L = 4 inches

So, the length of the rectangle is 4 inches.

Example 2: What is the width of a rectangle with an area of 18 square centimeters and a length of 6 centimeters?

Using the formula above, we can calculate the width:

A = L * W

18 = 6 * W

W = 3 cm

So, the width of the rectangle is 3 cm.

In conclusion, calculating the area of a rectangle is a straightforward process that involves multiplying the length and width of the shape. By using the formula A = L * W, you can easily find the area of any rectangle, whether it's a simple square or a more complex rectangle with unequal sides. Remember to always express your answers as whole numbers greater than zero.

Rectangle area example