What is the formula for the area of a rectangle?

The formula for the area of a rectangle is derived from its definition as a geometric shape with two pairs of equal sides. In mathematical terms, the area (A) is calculated by multiplying the length (L) of the rectangle by its width (W). This relationship reflects the total number of square units that can fit within the rectangle, making A = LW the correct formula. Each dimension corresponds directly to a side of the rectangle, and their product effectively quantifies the space enclosed within those dimensions.

The other formulas may pertain to different geometric calculations or shapes. For instance, adding length and width will not yield an area; instead, it gives a linear measurement. Similarly, the formula involving 2L + 2W actually calculates the perimeter of the rectangle, which is the total distance around it, rather than the space it occupies. The final option, A = L x W x H, describes the volume of a rectangular prism, which incorporates a third dimension (height) and is not applicable when calculating area alone.