Word problem

Question

The length of a rectangle is 1 in. less than twice the width. If the diagonal is 2in. more than the length, find the dimensions of the rectangle

Answer 1

First set the variables:

 

width = w

length = 2w-1

diagonal = (2w-1)+2

             =  2w+1

 

Next, draw a rectangle with the diagonal going through it and label the sides.  Notice you have a right triangle.  Knowing this, you can use the Pythagorean theorem.

 

w² + (2w-1)² = (2w+1)²

 

Solve for w and you will have your width.  Once you find w, substitute it into the expressions to obtain your length and diagonal.