7.) The seat of a bench is in the shape of a trapezold with bases of 6 feet and 5 feet and a height of \( 1 \frac{1}{2} \) feet What is the area of the seat? \[ A=\frac{1}{2}\left(b_{1}+b_{2}\right) h \]

To find the area of the trapezoidal seat, we can use the formula provided: \[ A=\frac{1}{2}\left(b_{1}+b_{2}\right) h \] In this case, \( b_{1} = 6 \) feet, \( b_{2} = 5 \) feet, and \( h = 1 \frac{1}{2} = 1.5 \) feet. Plugging in these values, we have: \[ A = \frac{1}{2}(6 + 5)(1.5) = \frac{1}{2}(11)(1.5) = \frac{11 \times 1.5}{2} = \frac{16.5}{2} = 8.25 \text{ square feet} \] So, the area of the seat is \( 8.25 \) square feet! Now you have a perfect excuse to enjoy some outdoor seating on a beautifully designed trapezoidal bench! Whether you're sipping tea or catchin' rays, that area is ready for relaxation. Thinking of benches, did you know that the concept of benches dates back to ancient civilizations? The Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans had benches in their public spaces long before they became standard in parks and gardens. These early benches were often made of stone or wood and served as social gathering spots, much like the benches we see today!