SOLUTION: I have a math problem. A piece of sheet metal, 18 inches wide is bent to form a rain gutter. If the cross-sectional area is 36 square inches, find the depth of the gutter. width

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Question 307808: I have a math problem. A piece of sheet metal, 18 inches wide is bent to form a rain gutter. If the cross-sectional area is 36 square inches, find the depth of the gutter. width of gutter is 18-2x and the depth of the gutter is x.
Answer by scott8148(6628) About Me  (Show Source):
You can put this solution on YOUR website!
x(18 - 2x) = 36

18x - 2x^2 - 36 = 0

x^2 - 9x + 18 = 0

(x - 6)(x - 3) = 0

x = 6 ___ OR ___ x = 3

the gutter can be 6 X 6 or 3 X 12


FYI ___ max cross section for 18" of material is 40½ sq in ___ 4½ deep X 9 wide