One side of the rectangle is 5 cm shorter than the other, and the sum of the sides is 11 cm.

One side of the rectangle is 5 cm shorter than the other, and the sum of the sides is 11 cm. Calculate the area of the rectangle.

1. Let’s denote the first side of the rectangle through x cm.

2. Let’s define the second side of the rectangle:

(x + 5) cm.

3. Let’s compose and solve the equation:

x + (x + 5) = 11;

x + x + 5 = 11;

2x + 5 = 11;

2x = 11 – 5;

2x = 6;

x = 6: 2;

x = 3.

4. The first side of the rectangle is x = 3 cm.

5. How long is the second side of the rectangle?

x + 5 = 3 + 5 = 8 cm.

6. What is the area of the rectangle?

3 * 8 = 24 cm ^ 2.

Answer: the area of the rectangle is 24 cm ^ 2.