Pyramids are formed when a base is connected to a single vertex using triangular faces. Most pyramids have a square base, but any polygon can become the base for a pyramid.
This pyramid has 8 edges and 5 vertices. Its highest point, the vertex where the triangular faces meet, is called the apex.
The volume of any pyramid can be found by multiplying the area of the base x height x \({\textstyle{1 \over 3}}\).
Step 1: Find the area of the base.
\(5 \times 4 = 20\;{\rm{in}}^2\)
Step 2: Multiply the area of the base by the height.
\(20 \times 6 = 120 \;{\rm{in}}^3\)
Step 3: Multiply by \({\textstyle{1 \over 3}}\). Remember, multiplying by \({\textstyle{1 \over 3}}\) is the same as dividing by 3.
\(\frac{{120}}{3} = 40\;{\rm{in}}^3\)
Answer: The volume of the pyramid is 40 cubic inches.
