Why the answer is C, and why the others tempt you.
**The reasoning**
The formula for the area of a square is:
**Area = side × side = side²**
Since each side is 6 units:
Area = 6 × 6 = **36 square units**
This works because a square has all four sides equal, and area measures how many unit squares fit inside. When you multiply length by width (which are the same in a square), you get the total space covered.
**Why the wrong options tempt you**
- **Option A (12):** You might add instead of multiply: 6 + 6 = 12. But area needs multiplication, not addition!
- **Option B (24):** This is the *perimeter* (adding all four sides: 6 + 6 + 6 + 6 = 24). Easy mix-up if you're rushing.
- **Option D (48):** Maybe you multiplied 6 × 8 or doubled the perimeter by mistake.
**Quick takeaway**
For area of a square, always **square the side** (side × side), never add. Perimeter adds, area multiplies!
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