To find the surface area of a rectangular prism, we need to know the dimensions: length (l), width (w), and height (h). The formula for the volume (V) of a rectangular prism is:
\[ V = l \times w \times h \]
We are given that the volume is 40 cubic inches:
\[ l \times w \times h = 40 \]
The surface area (SA) of a rectangular prism is given by the formula:
\[ SA = 2(lw + lh + wh) \]
Without the specific dimensions of the prism (length, width, height), we cannot compute the exact surface area. The surface area depends on how the volume is distributed among the three dimensions.
For example, if you had specific values for l, w, and h that satisfy \( l \times w \times h = 40 \), you could substitute those into the surface area formula to get the surface area.
If you provide specific dimensions or ratios for l, w, and h, I can help calculate the surface area. Alternatively, if you have certain constraints or if you would like to explore different combinations, let me know!