5. The Transamerica Pyramid is a skyscraper in San Francisco. The rectangular base has a length of 175 feet and a width of 120 feet. The height is 853 feet. Find the volume of

To find the volume of the Transamerica Pyramid, you can use the formula for the volume of a pyramid: \( V = \frac{1}{3} \times \text{Base Area} \times \text{Height} \). The base area is the length times the width, which in this case is \( 175 \, \text{ft} \times 120 \, \text{ft} = 21,000 \, \text{ft}^2 \). Then, substitute the base area and height into the volume formula: \( V = \frac{1}{3} \times 21,000 \, \text{ft}^2 \times 853 \, \text{ft} = 5,152,900 \, \text{ft}^3 \). Pyramids have a long history in architecture, reflecting the ingenuity of cultures worldwide—from the ancient Egyptians to modern architectural marvels like the Transamerica Pyramid. Its unique shape not only allows for stunning views of San Francisco but also helps to withstand the area's strong winds, showcasing how design can harmonize with nature while being visually breathtaking! In practical terms, when calculating volume for any structure, people often overlook the base area calculation. Always remember to calculate the base area first and double-check your multiplication! Another common mistake is mixing up units; ensure all measurements are in the same unit to avoid a volume that doesn't add up. Happy calculating!