Calculate the area of the rectangle below in terms of a and b.
We have hundreds of course questions with personalized recommendations + Account 100% premium
Calculate the area of the rectangle below in terms of a and b.
Let us begin by reminding ourselves of the formula to calculate the area of a rectangle: width X length
When:
S = area
w = width
h = height
We take data from the sides of the rectangle in the figure.
We then substitute the above data into the formula in order to calculate the area of the rectangle:
We use the formula of the extended distributive property:
We substitute once more and solve the problem as follows:
Therefore, the correct answer is option B: ab+8a+3b+24.
Keep in mind that, since there are only addition operations, the order of the terms in the expression can be changed and, therefore,
ab + 8a + 3b + 24
\( 140-70= \)
Because the rectangle's dimensions are (a+3) and (b+8), not just a and b. You must use the full expressions! Multiplying just a × b ignores the +3 and +8 parts.
Use FOIL method: First terms (b×a), Outer terms (b×3), Inner terms (8×a), Last terms (8×3). Then add all four products:
Yes! Since we're only adding terms, order doesn't matter. Both and are correct.
It doesn't matter! Rectangle area is commutative, meaning length × width = width × length. Whether you calculate (a+3)(b+8) or (b+8)(a+3), you'll get the same answer.
Count your terms! You should have exactly 4 terms after expanding: one from each combination of terms from the two binomials. Missing terms means incomplete distribution.
Get unlimited access to all 18 Algebraic Technique questions, detailed video solutions, and personalized progress tracking.
Unlimited Video Solutions
Step-by-step explanations for every problem
Progress Analytics
Track your mastery across all topics
Ad-Free Learning
Focus on math without distractions
No credit card required • Cancel anytime