GCSE Maths Practice: surface-area

Question 1 of 10

This question tests understanding of the correct units for measuring surface area.

›

\( \begin{array}{l}\text{Which units are used for surface area?}\end{array} \)

Choose one option:

Always use squared units for area measurements. Check if it is 2D (area) or 3D (volume).

Surface area measures the total area covering the outside of a 3D shape. Since it represents a two-dimensional space on each face of the shape, the correct units are square units, such as cm² or m². Unlike linear measurements (cm, m) or volume (cm³), surface area counts the extent of all faces, so it is always squared. For example, a cube with side 3 cm has 6 faces each with area 9 cm²; total surface area = 54 cm². Recognizing and using the correct units is essential to avoid errors in calculations and answers. Practice identifying units in different contexts such as cubes, cuboids, and prisms to reinforce understanding.