Geometry is one of the most important topics in Mathematics, which deals with various shapes such as square, rectangle, etc. It also helps us understand the different properties of these shapes. These shapes are then used in problem-solving questions of various topics such as trigonometry, algebra, calculus, etc. In this blog, we are going to explore the shape rectangle. We will be studying how to find the area of a rectangle and calculate the perimeter of a rectangle. But first, let us get started with some basic concepts.
What is a Rectangle?
A rectangle is a 2D geometric shape that has four sides and four vertices or corners. The opposite sides of a rectangle are of the same length and parallel to each other, i.e., all the points are equidistant. The sides of the rectangle intersect with each other to form a right angle. The two sides which are longer are known as the length of the rectangle, while the shorter side is the breadth of a rectangle.
The word rectangle comes from the Latin word ‘rectangulus,’ which means right angle. The rectangle is one of the simplest shapes to study, but questions related to a rectangle in concepts like Trigonometry and Calculus can be a bit complex. Hence it is vital to have strong fundamentals. With the help of Cuemath online learning classes, you can explore the different geometric shapes using visual simulations that will let you solve complex problems related to rectangles in the future.
The perimeter of a Rectangle
The perimeter of a rectangle can be defined as the sum of all four sides of a rectangle. Since the opposite sides of a rectangle are equal, the perimeter of a rectangle is twice the length of the rectangle plus twice the breadth of a rectangle.
Suppose p is the perimeter of a rectangle, l is the length, and b is the breadth, then the perimeter can be represented in the equation form as :
P = 2l+2b = 2 ( l+b)
Hence, equation 2 (l+b) represents the perimeter, where and b represents the length and breadth of the rectangle, respectively.
How to Find the Perimeter of a Rectangle?
In order to find the perimeter of a rectangle, we need to measure the sides of the rectangle. Once you’ve measured all the sides, it’s time to add them up. After adding all the sides, the sum we get is the perimeter of the rectangle.
For example, A rectangle with length 15cm and breadth 10cm, we can apply the formula 2 (l+b), we get 2(15+10), i.e 2(25)= 50. Hence the perimeter of this rectangle is 50cm.
Area of Rectangle
The space occupied by the rectangle in a 2D space is known as the area of that particular rectangle. It is defined as the product of the length and breadth of the rectangle. Hence the formula of the area of a rectangle is defined as A = l*b. The area of a rectangle is always measured in square units.
Steps to Find the Area of a Rectangle
Besides the rectangle area, the area of a parallelogram can be calculated using its base and height. Multiply the base and height or use an area of the parallelogram calculator.
Step 1: Before starting, convert the dimensions of length and breadth from the data. They should have the same units.
Step 2: After converting the units, apply the formula of the area of a rectangle, i.e., l*b. After multiplying the length and the breadth, you get the final answer.
Step3: Remember, the final answer should be in square units.
For example, in a rectangle with a length of 6cm and breadth of 5cm, the area is l*b, i.e., 6*5= 30 cm2.