2D · quadrilateral

Rectangle

Four right angles and two pairs of equal opposite sides make the rectangle a useful model for rooms, screens, and sheets of paper.

RectangleChange a dimension to explore
A = w × hDimensions shown in the selected unit

Give your shape a size.

Use the same unit for every dimension. Changing the unit relabels the measurements; it does not convert them.

From dimensions to an answer

Know its properties

Sides4; opposite pairs are equal
Interior anglesFour 90° angles
DiagonalsEqual in length; bisect each other
Symmetry2 reflection axes; 4 for a square

Useful formulas

Area: A = wh

Perimeter: P = 2(w + h)

Diagonal: d = √(w² + h²)

A little question. A clearer picture.

Rectangle: common questions

Wondering about the why? Start here.

How do I calculate a rectangle’s area and perimeter?

Multiply width by height for area: A = wh. Add width and height and double the result for perimeter: P = 2(w + h). A 6 cm by 4 cm rectangle has area 24 cm² and perimeter 20 cm.

Compare area and perimeter
Is a square also a rectangle?

Yes. A rectangle has four right angles, and a square satisfies that definition with all four sides equal. Enter the same width and height to calculate a square’s area and perimeter.

Explore regular polygons