A car has a light in the shape of a trapezoid. What is the area of \( A B C D \) ? \[ \begin{array}{ll}14.88 \mathrm{in.}^{2} \\ 15.20 \mathrm{in.}^{2} \\ 16.23 \mathrm{in.}^{2} & \mathrm{in.}^{2} \\ B C=6.0 \mathrm{in} . & D C=3.5 \mathrm{in} .\end{array} \]

To find the area of trapezoid \( ABCD \), we need to use the area formula for a trapezoid: \[ \text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (b_1 + b_2) \times h \] where \( b_1 \) and \( b_2 \) are the lengths of the two parallel sides, and \( h \) is the height. In this case: - Let \( b_1 = BC = 6.0 \) in - Let \( b_2 = DC = 3.5 \) in - Assuming the height \( h \) can be found from context or given information. The height isn't explicitly provided, but if we assume it to be a certain value based on previous dimensions, we could calculate the area using the formula above. If we take a hypothetical height of \( h = 4 \) inches for demonstration: \[ \text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times (6.0 + 3.5) \times 4 = \frac{1}{2} \times 9.5 \times 4 = 19 \text{ in}^2 \] But since we're looking for options among \( 14.88 \), \( 15.20 \), and \( 16.23 \) in², you can adjust \( h \) accordingly through practice or additional details from measurements provided. Now, to share a bit more about trapezoids: Trapezoids might seem simple, but did you know the trapezoidal shape is also present in various designs, including highway bridges where weight distribution is crucial? They effectively disperse loads, demonstrating engineering's practical and everyday use of geometry! You can dive deeper into the world of trapezoids and their applications! Books like "Geometry for Dummies" offer a splendid overview of trapezoids, their properties, and even visual tricks for remembering formulas. You'll be calculating area like a pro in no time!