The combined area is the sum of the areas.
for each one.
Square 1: 
Square 2: 
Combined Area:
=
=
(Added the fractions on the left, then multiplied both sides by 16.)
Subtract 32 from each side.

Factor with reverse FOIL. You may recognize the factors just by looking it.

Add 4 to both sides.
.
The first piece is x and the second piece is 8-x.
X=4 so both pieces are 4 inches.
If you need help understanding math so you can solve these problems yourself, then one on one online tutoring is the answer ($30/hr). If you need faster solutions with guaranteed detailed answers, then go with personal problem solving ($3.50-$5.50 per problem). Contact me at fcabanski@hotmail.com