If the width of the rectangular lot is 16 ft less than the length, and the perimeter is 160 ft, what are the dimensions of the new practice court? Perimeter of rectangle =2W+2L

Answer 1

If the width is 16 ft less than the length, then that means that it is equal to the length minus 16 feet. We can write this as an equation, using W for width and L for length:

W = L - 16

The problem itself reminds us that the formula for the perimeter of a rectangle is 2W + 2L, and it also tells us that this rectangle's perimeter is 160ft. Since we know what W is (our equation above), and we know what the perimeter is (160), we can rewrite the perimeter equation as 2(L-16) + 2L = 160.

If you solve this equation, you will find out what L is. Then you can plug that number into your equation for W to find out what the width is. The dimensions of the rectangle are these two numbers, length and width, with their unit (ft.)

Answer 2

W=L-16

P=160=2L+2W

Substituting the first equation into the second equation for W leaves:

160=2L+2(L-16)

160=2L+2L-32 /* expanding out

160+32=4L-32+32 /* adding 32 to each side

128=4L /* simplifying

128/4= 4L/4 /* divide each side by 4

32=L

Now substitute 32 for L into the first equation:

W=L-16

W=32-16

W=16

You have a 32 x 16 practice court.