Area of an L-Shape
Area · Class V
Combine two rectangles to find the L-area.
6 u
type a value
115
3 u
type a value
115
4 u
type a value
115
2 u
type a value
115
Live values
- Rect1 area18
- Rect2 area8
- Total L-area26
Live readout
Rect1 area18
Rect2 area8
Total L-area26
Rect1 length6 u
Rect1 width3 u
Rect2 length4 u
Rect2 width2 u
Formulas in this lab
- Rect1 area
- Rect2 area
- Total L-area
Tip: Split tricky shapes into rectangles, find each area, add!
Frequently asked questions
▶How do we find the area of an L-shape?
Split the L into two rectangles, find each area, then add them. For example, a big 10 by 4 rectangle plus a small 3 by 2 rectangle gives 40 plus 6, so the L-area is 46 square units.
▶How do I use this lab?
Pick the sides of the L using the sliders. The lab draws the L, splits it into two rectangles with a dotted line, and adds their areas to give the total.
▶When is L-shape area useful?
Many flats in India have L-shaped halls or balconies. To buy floor tiles or carpet for such a room, you need the L-area, not just a simple rectangle.
▶Tip for tricky shapes
Any shape made of straight lines can be split into rectangles or triangles. Find each small area first, then add. This split-and-add trick works even for complicated room plans.