Question 67560
Write simple equation for each statement:
:
"The length of a rectangular playing field is 5 ft less than twice its width."
L = 2W - 5
:
"If the perimeter of the playing field is 230 ft," 
2L + 2W = 230
Simplify, divide equation by 2:
L + W = 115
:
find the length and width of the field.
:
Substitute (2W-5) for L in the 2nd equation
(2W-5) + W = 115
2W + W = 115 + 5
3W = 120
W = 120/3
W = 40 ft
:
Find the length using L = 2W - 5)
L = 2(40) - 5
L = 80 - 5
L = 75 ft
:
:
Check solutions using the perimeter:
2(75) + 2(80) = 230
:
Pretty simple, right?