<PRE><B>Question 366601</B>
Let L = the length of rectangle in inches
    W = the width of rectangle in inches

L = W + 3

2L(W-1) = 50

Substitute L=W+3 in 2nd equation to express the 2nd equation in terms of W
2(W+3)(W-1) = 50
(2W+6)(W-1) = 50
2W^2-2W+6W-6-50=0
Combine like terms and divide by 2
W^2+2W-28=0

Solve by quadratic formula
W = -2 +/- [4-4(1)(-28)]/2

W = 4.385
L = 4.385 +3 = 7.385</PRE>