What is the formula for the surface area of a cube?

The surface area of a cube is determined by understanding that a cube consists of six identical square faces. The formula for the area of one square face is given by (a^2), where (a) is the length of one side of the cube.

Since there are six faces on a cube, the total surface area can be calculated by multiplying the area of one face by the number of faces:

[

\text{Surface Area} = 6 \times a^2 = 6a^2

]

This formula captures the total area that covers the outside of the cube, making it clear that the correct choice reflects the relationship between the side length and the total surface area. The formula (6a^2) effectively accounts for all six square faces, highlighting the geometric properties of the cube.