Let the width of the fenced-in area be denoted as $w$, and the length as $l$. According to the problem, the length is 3 feet greater than the width, so we can express the length as:

$l = w + 3$

The total amount of fencing to be used is 63 feet. Since the area is being fenced along a straight river bank, we only need fencing for three sides (two widths and one length):

$2w + l = 63$

Substitute $l = w + 3$ into this equation:

$2w + (w + 3) = 63$

Simplify the equation:

$3w + 3 = 63$

Subtract 3 from both sides:

$3w = 60$

Now, divide both sides by 3:

$w = 20$

Now that we know the width is 20 feet, we can find the length by substituting $w = 20$ into $l = w + 3$:

$l = 20 + 3 = 23$

Thus, the width is 20 feet and the length is 23 feet.

Summary:

• Width: 20 feet
• Length: 23 feet

Would you like further details or explanations?

Related questions:

1. What would be the width if the total fencing was increased to 70 feet, keeping the same length-to-width relationship?
2. How would the problem change if the length was double the width instead of 3 feet more?
3. Can you derive a general formula for this type of fencing problem?
4. What is the area of the fenced region with the dimensions provided?
5. What would the dimensions be if the total fencing was reduced to 60 feet?

Tip:

When dealing with perimeter or fencing problems, always set up an equation for the perimeter based on the given conditions and solve for the unknown variables.