The surface area of a pyramid is equal to the total area of all its flat faces. The formula to calculate the value of the surface area of a pyramid relies on the shape and size of a given pyramid's base.
SA = B + (1/2)pl
where SA is the pyramid surface area, B is the area of the pyramid base, p is the perimeter of the pyramid base, and l is the slant height of the pyramid (the distance between the apex and the base).
SA = B + πr^2
where SA is the pyramid surface area, B is the area of the pyramid base, π is the mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14159, and r is the radius of the pyramid base.
For example:
Let us say, we have a triangular pyramid with a base of 5 by 5 and a height of 7.
SA = B + (1/2)pl = (5*5) + (1/2)(10)(7) = 25 + 35 = 60
Therefore, the surface area of this pyramid is 60.
Note: The surface area of a pyramid is always gauged in square units because it consists of two-dimensional areas formed by all of its faces.
Leverage what is unique about you to achieve superior results in your exams