The total surface area of a square pyramid is 576 square cm, and its base edge is 12 cm. What is its lateral surface area?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Total surface area = 576 cm², base side = 12 cm
According to the formula:
Total surface area = lateral area + base area
Base area = a²
Base area = 12² = 144
Lateral area = 576 − 144 = 432 cm²