Big Ideas Math - Algebra 1, A Common Core Curriculum

Published by Big Ideas Learning LLC
ISBN 10: 978-1-60840-838-2
ISBN 13: 978-1-60840-838-2

Chapter 1 - Solving Linear Equations - 1.3 - Solving Equations with Variables on Both Sides - Exercises - Page 24: 40

Answer

A rectangle of length $3x$ and width $2$.

Work Step by Step

The triangle is made of the sides with lengths $x+3$, $3x$ and $2x+1$. The perimeter of a triangle is the sum of all sides' lengths. Adding the sides' lengths, perimeter, $P$, will be $$P = x + 3 + 3x + 2x + 1.$$ Grouping variables and constants we get: $$P = 6x + 4.$$ Let's construct a rectangle of length $l$ and width $w$ with the same perimeter $P$. The perimeter of this rectangle is obtained by adding the $2$ lengths and the $2$ widths: $$\begin{align} P& = l + w + l + w\\ P& = 2l + 2w. \end{align}$$ Since this perimeter should be equal to the perimeter of the triangle, we must have $$2l + 2w = 6x + 4.$$ Dividing both sides by $2$ we get: $$l + w = 3x + 2.$$ For example, we can take $l=3x$ and $w=2$, thereby resulting in the rectangle shown in the image.
Update this answer!

You can help us out by revising, improving and updating this answer.

Update this answer

After you claim an answer you’ll have 24 hours to send in a draft. An editor will review the submission and either publish your submission or provide feedback.