Word Problems, HELP

Question

 Use an algebraic approach to solve the problem.
Suppose that the width of a certain rectangle is 5 inches more than one-fourth of its length. The perimeter of the rectangle is 70 inches. Find the length and width of the rectangle.

Answer 1

Nathan,

 

Here's a start:

 

the perimeter is 2 lengths + 2 width =70

 

let l be length

let w be width

 

use this substitution to solve and eliminate width so that you end up with only lengths.

 

w=5+1/4L

 

so that the width equals 5 more than 1/4 of its length

 

p=2 lengths+ 2 widths

 

p=2 lengths + 2 (5+1/4L)

 

70= 2 lengths +2 (5 +1/4 lengths)

 

then multiply and solve for length

 

then you know what 2 lengths are and you can then figure out what 2 widths are