Triangular Prism Surface Area Concepts

The video tutorial explains how to find the surface area of a triangular prism, highlighting the differences from a rectangular prism. It guides viewers on identifying the base, redrawing and labeling it, and calculating the lateral surface area using the perimeter and height. The tutorial emphasizes careful observation to avoid common misconceptions.

What makes finding the surface area of a triangular prism trickier than a rectangular prism?

• The base of a triangular prism is always a rectangle.

• Triangular prisms have no congruent sides.

• Triangular prisms have more sides than rectangular prisms.

• The base of a triangular prism is not always obvious.

Why might a triangular prism be mistaken for a rectangular prism?

• Because it always has a square base.

• Because it can be drawn to look like a tent.

• Because it has four sides.

• Because it is always upright.

What should you look for to identify the base of a triangular prism?

• The side with the most angles.

• The side with the largest area.

• The longest side of the prism.

• The two congruent triangles.

Why is it important to be vigilant when identifying the base of a triangular prism?

• Because the base is always a rectangle.

• Because the base is always the smallest side.

• Because the base is always the largest side.

• Because the base can be easily mistaken.

What is the first step in finding the lateral surface area of a triangular prism?

• Measure the height of the prism.

• Calculate the volume of the prism.

• Identify the longest side of the prism.

• Redraw the base of the prism.

Why is it important to redraw the base of the prism?

• To make it look more like a rectangle.

• To simplify the 3D shape into a 2D shape.

• To change the dimensions of the base.

• To make the prism appear larger.

What should you do after redrawing the base of the prism?

• Erase the original drawing.

• Measure the angles of the base.

• Label the sides of the base.

• Color the base in blue.

How do you determine the third side of the base if it's not immediately obvious?

• Use the Pythagorean theorem.

• Measure it directly from the 3D shape.

• Check for congruent sides.

• Assume it's equal to the height.

What should you do if a right angle is not drawn on your notes?

• Ignore it and proceed.

• Measure the angle with a protractor.

• Draw one to help identify the hypotenuse.

• Assume the angle is 90 degrees.

What does the 'big P' in the formula for lateral surface area represent?

• The volume of the prism.

• The perimeter of the base.

• The area of the base.

• The height of the prism.