key term - Centimeters squared

Definition

Centimeters squared is a unit of area measurement that indicates how many square centimeters are contained within a given shape. This term becomes particularly significant when calculating the area of two-dimensional figures, such as polygons and composite shapes, enabling us to quantify the space they occupy. Understanding this unit allows for better comprehension of geometry and the relationships between different shapes in terms of their sizes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. To calculate the area of a rectangle, multiply its length by its width, with the result expressed in centimeters squared.
2. For regular polygons, there are specific formulas based on the number of sides and side lengths to determine their area in centimeters squared.
3. Composite figures require breaking them down into simpler shapes to find the total area, with each shape's area calculated separately and then added together in centimeters squared.
4. Area calculations in centimeters squared are essential for real-life applications such as flooring, painting walls, or determining the amount of material needed for crafts.
5. It is crucial to keep track of units during area calculations, as using different units (like inches or feet) without conversion will lead to incorrect area results.

Review Questions

• How do you find the area of a regular polygon in centimeters squared?
  • To find the area of a regular polygon in centimeters squared, you can use the formula A = (1/2) * Perimeter * Apothem for polygons like hexagons or pentagons. The perimeter is calculated by adding the lengths of all sides, and the apothem is the distance from the center to the midpoint of a side. Once these values are determined, simply plug them into the formula to get the area expressed in centimeters squared.
• Discuss how you would calculate the area of a composite figure made up of a rectangle and a triangle in centimeters squared.
  • To calculate the area of a composite figure that includes both a rectangle and a triangle, first find the area of each shape separately. For the rectangle, use A = length × width; for the triangle, use A = (1/2) × base × height. After calculating both areas in centimeters squared, simply add them together to get the total area of the composite figure. This ensures you accurately account for all parts of the shape.
• Evaluate why understanding centimeters squared is important for practical applications like landscaping or home improvement projects.
  • Understanding centimeters squared is essential for practical applications such as landscaping or home improvement because it directly relates to material estimation and cost calculations. For instance, when laying sod or installing flooring, knowing the exact area in centimeters squared helps determine how much material is needed, preventing over-purchasing or running short. Moreover, this knowledge helps homeowners visualize space usage effectively and plan accordingly, ensuring efficient project execution and budget management.

Related terms

Area:

The measure of the amount of space inside a two-dimensional shape, typically expressed in square units.

Regular Polygon: A polygon with all sides and angles equal, such as a square or an equilateral triangle.

Composite Figure: A shape that is made up of two or more simpler geometric shapes, allowing for combined area calculations.