To solve this problem, we’ll use algebra and the formula for the perimeter of a rectangle. Let’s denote:

• The width of the rectangle as $w$.
• The length of the rectangle as $w + 5$ (since the length is 5 inches longer than the width).

The formula for the perimeter of a rectangle is:

$P = 2 \times (\text{length} + \text{width})$

Given the perimeter is 40 inches, we substitute:

$40 = 2 \times \left( (w + 5) + w \right)$

Step 1: Simplify the equation

$40 = 2 \times (2w + 5)$

$40 = 4w + 10$

Step 2: Solve for $w$

$40 - 10 = 4w$

$30 = 4w$

$w = \frac{30}{4} = 7.5$

Final Answer:

The width of the rectangle is 7.5 inches.

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Here are 5 related questions for practice:

1. If the length of a rectangle is twice the width, and the perimeter is 36 inches, what is the width?
2. A rectangle has a perimeter of 48 inches, and its length is 4 inches more than the width. Find its dimensions.
3. The area of a rectangle is 120 square inches, and its length is 2 inches longer than the width. What are its dimensions?
4. If the perimeter of a square is 32 inches, what is the length of one side?
5. The width of a rectangle is 3 inches less than its length. If the perimeter is 50 inches, what are its dimensions?

Tip: When solving geometry problems, always write down the formulas first to stay organized!