Algebra problem help?

Algebra problem help?
Problem solving involving quadratic equations:

An oriental rug has an area of 448 sq. ft. Its length is 4 ft. more than twice its width. Find the dimensions of the rug.


Answers:

Katie B:  Area=lengthxwidth
(2w+4)(w)=448 square feet

Multiply and solve for w, the width. Then plug w in to 2w+4 to get your length.
2008-10-02 03:55:29
Chosen Answer
hussain a:  Area of rug =448
let width=x
then lentgh=4+2x (4 ft. more than twice its width)
So
(4+2x)(x)=448
4x+2x^2=448
2x+x^2=224(divided by 2)
x^2+2x-224=0
x^2+16x-14x-224=0
x(x+16)-14(x+16)=0
(x-14)(x+16)=0
x=14 OR x=-16
since width cant be negative
so
width=x=14
length=4+2(14)=32
2008-10-02 03:59:43