SOLUTION: A frame for a picture is 2.5 inches wide. The picture enclosed by the frame is 5 inches longer than it is wide. If the area of the picture itself is 300 square inches, determine th

Algebra ->  Quadratic Equations and Parabolas  -> Quadratic Equations Lessons  -> Quadratic Equation Lesson -> SOLUTION: A frame for a picture is 2.5 inches wide. The picture enclosed by the frame is 5 inches longer than it is wide. If the area of the picture itself is 300 square inches, determine th      Log On


   

Question 1009237: A frame for a picture is 2.5 inches wide. The picture enclosed by the frame is 5 inches longer than it is wide. If the area of the picture itself is 300 square inches, determine the outer dimensions of the frame.
Answer by fractalier(6550) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
Area A = LW = 300 and L = W + 5 so by substitution we have
(W + 5)(W) = 300
W^2 + 5W - 300 = 0
(W + 20)(W - 15) = 0
so that the width is 15 inches and the length must be 20 inches.
If the frame is 2.5 inches all around it adds 5 inches to the length and the width, making the overall dimensions
20 in x 25 in