Answer
W = 6.657 in.
Explanation
The area of a rectangle is given as
Area = L × W
Where
L = Length of the rectangle
W = Width of the rectangle
We are also told that the height (or the length) is 2 in. shorter than its width.
L = W - 2
The area of the rectangle = 31 in²
Area = L × W
31 = (W - 2) × W
W (W - 2) = 31
W² - 2W = 31
W² - 2W - 31 = 0
We now have to solve this quadratic equation. After solving,
W = 6.657 OR W = -4.657
But since the width of the rectangle cannot be negative, the right answer is
W = 6.657 in.
Hope this Helps!!!
