Area of Prisms: Finding the surface area of a rectangular prism

The video tutorial explains how to calculate the surface area of a rectangular prism. It begins with drawing and labeling the prism, followed by using the formula for surface area. Two example problems are solved, one using inches and the other using feet, to demonstrate the process. The tutorial concludes with tips on ensuring correct unit usage and consistent application of the formula.

What is the first step in calculating the surface area of a rectangular prism?

• Calculate the perimeter of the base

• Find the diagonal of the prism

• Label the length, width, and height

• Measure the volume of the prism

In the first example, what is the surface area of the rectangular prism with dimensions 3 inches by 1 inch by 2 inches?

• 18 square inches

• 30 square inches

• 22 square inches

• 26 square inches

What is the formula used to calculate the surface area of a rectangular prism?

• 2 * (L + W + H)

• L + W + H

• 2 * (L * H + L * W + H * W)

• L * W * H

For the second example, what are the dimensions of the rectangular prism?

• 5 feet by 2 feet by 3 feet

• 7 feet by 3 feet by 1 foot

• 6 feet by 4 feet by 2 feet

• 8 feet by 3 feet by 2 feet

What is the surface area of the rectangular prism in the second example?

• 68 square feet

• 62 square feet

• 58 square feet

• 52 square feet