Question 44129
Let the original side length be called x..
the original area is equal to {{{x^2}}}
The new side length is (x-2)
The new area is (x-2)^2
the change in area is the original area - the new area:
{{{36=x^2-(x-2)^2}}}
{{{36=x^2-(x^2-4x+4)}}}
{{{36=4x-4}}}
{{{4x=40}}}
{{{x=10}}}
so the originale sqares dimensions where 4cm by 4 cm.

I hope this helps 
P.S. I am trying to start up my own homework help website. I would be extremely grateful if you would e-mail me some feedback on the help you received to adam.chapman@student.manchester.ac.uk