The area of a playground is 234 yd2. The width of the playground is 5 yards longer than its length. Find the length and width of the playground.

Answer 1

l(l + 5) = 234

l2 + 5l = 234

l2 + 5l - 234 = 0

l2 + 18l - 13l - 234 = 0

l(l + 18) - 13(l + 18) = 0

(l - 13)(l + 18) = 0

l - 13 = 0

l = 13

13 + 5 = 18

length = 13 yards

width = 18 yards

l + 18 = 0

l = -18

Since we don't measure in negative units, we disregard this possible solution.