Question 597387
Hi, there--
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The formula for the area of a trapezoid is
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{{{A=(h/2)(b[1]+b[2])}}}
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Substitute the known values into this formula.
{{{48=(h/2)(3+5)}}}
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Simplify and solve for h, the height. 
{{{48=(h/2)(8)}}}
{{{6=h/2}}}
{{{h=12}}}
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The equation h = 12 means that the height is 12 inches.
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CHECK:
{{{A=(h/2)(b[1]+b[2])}}}
{{{48=(12/2)(3+5)}}}
{{{48=(6)(8)}}}
{{{48=48}}}
Check!
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Thst's it. Feel free to email me if the explanation is unclear.
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Ms.Figgy
math.in.the.vortex@gmail.com