Graphs reveal area secrets through simple shapes.
The constant function f(x)=a spanning 0 to xₘ encloses a rectangle of area a𝑥ₘ. The linear function f(x)=a𝑥 encloses a triangle of area a𝑥ₘ²/2. These equal the evaluated definite integrals of each.
Spring manufacturers compute elastic potential energy as the triangular area under the force-extension graph, yielding ½kx² for a spring constant k.