How to Calculate the Missing Side Length in a Parallelogram

Hi there! Let me help you work through this parallelogram problem step by step. 🙂

1. What We're Solving:

We need to find the value of x (which represents one of the side lengths) when we know the parallelogram has an area of 18 cm².

2. The Approach:

Here's the key insight: Area of a parallelogram = base × height

The tricky part is identifying which measurements we have. In parallelogram problems, we often have a side length and the perpendicular height (not the slanted side). The height is always the shortest distance between two parallel sides - it forms a right angle with the base.

3. Step-by-Step Solution:

Since I can't see your specific diagram, I'll show you the general method:

Step 1: Identify what measurements you have

• Look for the base length (this might be x, or a number)
• Look for the height (this should be marked with a right angle symbol ⊥)
• You know the area = 18 cm²

Step 2: Set up the area formula Area = base × height 18 = base × height

Step 3: Substitute your known values If x is the base and you have a height measurement, substitute: 18 = x × (height value)

Step 4: Solve for x Divide both sides by the height to isolate x

For example: If the height is 3 cm, then: 18 = x × 3 x = 18 ÷ 3 = 6 cm

4. The Answer:

Without seeing your specific diagram, x will equal 18 divided by whatever the height measurement is in your problem.

5. Memory Tip:

Think "Area = base × height" and remember that height is ALWAYS perpendicular to the base - it's the "straight up" distance, not the slanted side! 📐

Could you share the specific measurements from your diagram? That way I can walk through the exact calculation with your numbers!