Math Problem Statement

The length and width of a rectangle are consecutive integers. The perimeter of the rectangle is 86 inches. Find the length and width of the rectangle.

Solution

Let's denote the length of the rectangle by LL and the width by WW. Since the length and width are consecutive integers, we can express them as:

L=W+1L = W + 1

The formula for the perimeter PP of a rectangle is given by:

P=2(L+W)P = 2(L + W)

We know the perimeter is 86 inches:

2(L+W)=862(L + W) = 86

Now, substitute L=W+1L = W + 1 into the perimeter equation:

2((W+1)+W)=862((W + 1) + W) = 86

Simplify the equation:

2(2W+1)=862(2W + 1) = 86

Divide both sides by 2:

2W+1=432W + 1 = 43

Subtract 1 from both sides:

2W=422W = 42

Finally, divide by 2:

W=21W = 21

Since L=W+1L = W + 1:

L=21+1=22L = 21 + 1 = 22

So, the length is 22 inches, and the width is 21 inches.

Summary:

  • Length: 22 inches
  • Width: 21 inches

Would you like a detailed explanation or have any other questions?

Here are five related questions:

  1. What is the area of this rectangle?
  2. How would the perimeter change if the length and width were both increased by 2 inches?
  3. If the width were doubled, what would be the new perimeter?
  4. What would the perimeter be if the length and width were both decreased by 3 inches?
  5. Can you find another pair of consecutive integers that would give a different perimeter?

Tip: Remember, for any two consecutive integers, if you know one, you can always find the other by adding or subtracting 1.