Math Problem Statement

A Reactangle has a length five less than the width. If the perimeter is 14 units, create an equation using x to help you find the width and length.

Solution

To find the width and length of the rectangle, let's break the problem down.

Step 1: Set Variables

Let:

  • xx = width of the rectangle (in units)
  • x5x - 5 = length of the rectangle (since the length is 5 units less than the width)

Step 2: Write the Perimeter Formula

The formula for the perimeter of a rectangle is:
P=2(Length+Width)P = 2(\text{Length} + \text{Width})
Since the perimeter is given as 14 units, we can substitute values into the formula:
14=2((x5)+x)14 = 2((x - 5) + x)

Step 3: Simplify the Equation

First, simplify the terms inside the parentheses:
14=2(2x5)14 = 2(2x - 5)
Now, distribute the 2:
14=4x1014 = 4x - 10

Step 4: Solve for xx

Add 10 to both sides:
14+10=4x14 + 10 = 4x
24=4x24 = 4x
Now, divide both sides by 4:
x=6x = 6
So, the width is 6 units.

Step 5: Find the Length

The length is:
x5=65=1unitx - 5 = 6 - 5 = 1 \, \text{unit}

Final Answer

  • Width: 6 units
  • Length: 1 unit

Would you like further details or have any follow-up questions?


Here are 5 related questions to explore further:

  1. How would the equation change if the length were twice the width?
  2. What if the perimeter was given in meters instead of units?
  3. How do you find the area of this rectangle?
  4. Can you derive a formula to express length in terms of perimeter and width?
  5. How does the perimeter formula change for a square?

Tip: Always double-check units in geometry problems to ensure your answer matches the required measurements.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Algebra
Linear Equations
Geometry

Formulas

Perimeter of a rectangle P = 2(Length + Width)

Theorems

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Suitable Grade Level

Grades 6-8