What Is the Perimeter of Rectangle JKLM?
Geometry is full of practical, real-world applications, and among the most fundamental of geometric shapes is the rectangle. Whether designing blueprints, calculating fencing for a garden, or simply solving homework problems, understanding how to calculate a rectangle’s perimeter is a skill worth mastering. One commonly asked question is: “What is the perimeter of rectangle JKLM?”
Let’s break it down and understand the concept, process, and answer step by step.
What Does Perimeter Mean?
The term perimeter refers to the total length around a two-dimensional shape. For a rectangle, this means adding up all four sides. But since opposite sides of a rectangle are equal in length, we can simplify the process with a formula:
Perimeter of a rectangle=2×(Length+Width)\text{Perimeter of a rectangle} = 2 \times (\text{Length} + \text{Width})
So, instead of adding all four sides individually, you only need to know the length and width, and plug them into the formula.
Rectangle JKLM: What Do We Know?
In most test or homework scenarios, a rectangle like JKLM is labeled on a diagram with side lengths marked. If you’re faced with a question asking for the perimeter of rectangle JKLM and you’re provided with multiple-choice answers like:
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32 units
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44 units
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56 units
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64 units
Your task is to use the perimeter formula to determine which of these is correct.
Suppose the diagram or description tells you that:
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Length = 18 units
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Width = 10 units
Using the formula:
Perimeter=2×(18+10)=2×28=56 units\text{Perimeter} = 2 \times (18 + 10) = 2 \times 28 = 56 \text{ units}
So, the correct answer in this case would be 56 units.
A Step-by-Step Example
To better understand this, here’s a quick walk-through of how to solve similar problems:
Step 1: Identify the Sides
Read the question carefully or look at the diagram. Label the length and width of the rectangle.
Step 2: Apply the Formula
Use the formula:
Perimeter=2×(Length+Width)\text{Perimeter} = 2 \times (\text{Length} + \text{Width})
Step 3: Calculate
Add the length and width together, then multiply by 2.
Step 4: Match the Answer
Check which of the given options matches your calculated perimeter.
Why This Matters
Understanding how to calculate perimeter isn’t just about passing a quiz. This concept applies to daily life and a wide range of professions—architecture, engineering, construction, landscaping, and more. Even in digital design, knowing dimensions and boundary lengths is critical.
Final Thoughts
If you’re asked, “What is the perimeter of rectangle JKLM?” the key is knowing how to apply the formula. Once you’ve identified the side lengths, the calculation is straightforward. In our example, with sides measuring 18 and 10 units, the perimeter comes out to 56 units—a perfect match for one of the answer choices.
Mastering simple geometric formulas like this lays the foundation for more advanced math and real-world problem solving. Whether in a classroom or on the job site, this is a skill that pays off.
Need help with area, volume, or diagonal length next? Stay tuned for more geometry breakdowns.