Polynomials and measurements

Question

A box is 15 x 20 inches. In the box there are cut out squares of the same size from each corner. Mark the side of the cut-out square by x. Write an expression that represents the width of the box.

Answer 1

If we identify 15 as the width of the original rectangle and cut a piece that is x by x inches off each corner, the width is 15-2x.

Also, The new length would be 20-2x, and you could find the area of the base by multiplying length times width (20-2x)(15-2x)=A.

I hope this helps!

This is an interesting way to maximize area and volume using polynomials, so you're investigating the first step with this question.

Have fun mathing, and let me know if you have any more questions!

LizZ