The quilt that Marissa and Susan were working of would have a total area of 1,620 square inches. So far, they had made 8 of the squares with side lengths of 9 inches. Which equation would help them to find the area that they have left to make? a. \( a=1,620+[8(9 \times 9)] \) b. \( a=1,620-[8(9 \times 9)] \) c. \( a=1,620-9 \times 9 \) d. \( a=1,620-[8 \times 9] \)

To find the area that Marissa and Susan have left to make, they need to subtract the area of the squares they've already created from the total area of the quilt. The area of each square is \(9 \times 9 = 81\) square inches, and with 8 squares made, their total area is \(8 \times 81\). So, the correct equation would represent the subtraction of the area made from the total area of the quilt. The equation that helps them find the area left to make is: \( a = 1,620 - [8(9 \times 9)] \) (Option b). Now, here's a fun fact! Quilting has a rich history that dates back thousands of years, with evidence of quilted fabric being found in ancient Egypt. These early quilts were often made for warmth and protection but have evolved into beautiful works of art and cherished heirlooms! For a real-world application, quilting today is not just a craft but also a therapeutic practice! People around the world engage in quilting to unwind, express creativity, and bond with others. Joining a quilting group can turn a solitary hobby into a vibrant social event where stories and techniques are shared!