Problema Solution

a cube of 4 inches is cut by a plane containing two diagonally opposite edges of the cube. Find the area of the section formed.

Answer provided by our tutors

 

In order to find the area of the section, we need to find the length of one of the diagonals.

Using the Pythagorean Theorem, a^2 + b^2 = c^2, we pick any side of the cube which in

itself is a square with sides 4 inches each.  The length of the diagonal of the square is

2(4^2) = c^2  or c = 4sqrt(2).

 

The section is now a rectangle with sides 4 and 4sqrt(2).  So its area A = 4 * 4sqrt(2) = 16sqrt(2) inches^2