<PRE><B>Question 536603</B>
The combined area is the sum of the areas.&lt;P&gt;

{{{A=s^2}}} for each one.&lt;P&gt;
Square 1: {{{A=(x/4)^2}}}&lt;P&gt;
Square 2: {{{A=((x-8)/4)^2}}}&lt;P&gt;
Combined Area:  {{{A=2=(x/4)^2+((x-8)/4)^2}}}=&lt;P&gt;
{{{(x^2/16)+(x^2-16x+64)/16=2}}}=&lt;P&gt;
{{{2x^2-16x+64=32}}}  (Added the fractions on the left, then multiplied both sides by 16.)&lt;P&gt;
Subtract 32 from each side.&lt;P&gt;
{{{x^2-16x+32=0}}}&lt;P&gt;
Factor with reverse FOIL.  You may recognize the factors just by looking it.&lt;P&gt;
{{{(x-4)(x-4)}}}&lt;P&gt;
{{{x-4=0}}} Add 4 to both sides.  {{{x=4}}}.&lt;P&gt;
The first piece is x and the second piece is 8-x. &lt;P&gt;
X=4 so both pieces are 4 inches.
&lt;P&gt;&lt;B&gt;If you need help understanding math so you can solve these problems yourself, then one on one online tutoring is the answer ($30/hr).  If you need faster solutions with guaranteed detailed answers, then go with personal problem solving ($3.50-$5.50 per problem).  Contact me at fcabanski@hotmail.com&lt;/B&gt;&lt;P&gt;
</PRE>