Math Problem Statement

The perimeter P of a rectangle with length ℓ and width w can be represented by the equation P = 2ℓ + 2w. Which expression represents the width in relation to the P and ℓ?

Solution

The given problem states that the perimeter PP of a rectangle with length \ell and width ww is represented by the equation:

P=2+2wP = 2\ell + 2w

We need to find the expression that represents the width ww in relation to PP and \ell.

Step-by-step Solution:

  1. Start with the equation for the perimeter:

P=2+2wP = 2\ell + 2w

  1. Isolate ww by subtracting 22\ell from both sides:

P2=2wP - 2\ell = 2w

  1. Now, solve for ww by dividing both sides by 2:

w=P22w = \frac{P - 2\ell}{2}

This matches option J.

Thus, the correct answer is J: P22\frac{P - 2\ell}{2}.

Would you like further details or have any questions? Here are some additional related questions:

  1. How do we find the length if the width and perimeter are known?
  2. How does the equation for the perimeter change if the rectangle becomes a square?
  3. What would the expression for width be if only the area and length were given instead of the perimeter?
  4. Can you explain why we divide by 2 to solve for the width?
  5. How would the formula change if the units for length and width were different?

Tip: Whenever solving for a variable, always try to isolate it step by step using basic algebraic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Geometry
Linear Equations

Formulas

P = 2ℓ + 2w
w = (P - 2ℓ) / 2

Theorems

Perimeter of a rectangle

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8