The length of a rectangle is 6 inches more than the width. The perimeter is 48 inches. Find the length and the width of the rectangle. The width of the rectangle is

Let's dive into this classic rectangle problem! If we let the width be \( w \) inches, then the length can be expressed as \( w + 6 \) inches. The formula for the perimeter \( P \) of a rectangle is \( P = 2 \times (length + width) \). By substituting in our expressions, we get the equation: \( 48 = 2(w + (w + 6)) \). Simplifying this, we obtain \( 48 = 2(2w + 6) \) which leads to \( 24 = 2w + 6 \), and finally, solving it gives us \( w = 9 \) inches. Therefore, the width of the rectangle is 9 inches and the length is \( 9 + 6 = 15 \) inches! Now, imagine using this knowledge in real life! Suppose you're designing a garden plot in the shape of a rectangle—knowing how to calculate perimeter and dimensions can help you optimize space for plants, ensuring you don’t run out of room, and it can even aid in budgeting materials like soil and fencing. Having these calculations at hand makes you a pro gardener!