The length of a rectangle is 5 inches longer than the width. The perimeter of the rectangle is 40 inches. What is the width of the rectangle, in inches?

W = 7.5 in

Step-by-step explanation:

We'll use the formula for the perimeter of a rectangle: P = 2W + 2L.

Here, L = W + 5, so P = 2W + 2L becomes:

P = 2W + 2 (W + 5), and this equals 40 in.

Thus we have the equation in W (the desired variable) as follows:

2W + 2 (W + 5) = 40 in, or 4W + 10 = 40.

Then 4W = 30, and W = 7.5 in.

Answer: 7.5"

Step-by-step explanation:

First, take away the extra 5" on the longer side lengths

40-5-5=30

Then divide by 4 to get the width

30/4=7.5

This works because if you took the 7.5" and added back the 5 inches, it makes 12.5. Then add all 4 sides together, you get 40.

7.5+7.5+12.5+12.5=