Question 216373
Find the dimensions of a rectangle , if the area equals 144 square in. and the length and the width are in the ratio of 2 to 1/2.  (hint : in order to eliminate the fraction , the ratio may be changed to 4 to 1.


Step 1.  Let A=Area = width * length = 144 square inches


Step 2.  Let w be the width and 4w be the length.


Step 3.  Then {{{A=w*4w=4w^2=144}}}


Step 4.  Divide 4 to both sides of equation. {{{w^2=144/4=36}}}   


Step 5.  Take the square root yields  {{{sqrt(w^2)=sqrt(36)}}} or {{{w=6}}}


Step 6.  Then {{{4w=24}}}...Check the area {{{A=6*24=144}}}...which is a true statement.


Step 7.  ANSWER:  The dimensions are 6 feet as the width and 24 feet as the length.


I hope the above steps and explanation were helpful. 


For Step-By-Step videos on Introduction to Algebra, please visit http://www.FreedomUniversity.TV/courses/IntroAlgebra and for Trigonmetry please visit http://www.FreedomUniversity.TV/courses/Trignometry. 


Also, good luck in your studies and contact me at john@e-liteworks.com for your future math needs.


Respectfully, 
Dr J