How long is the shorter side of a rectangle when one side is 2" longer than the other and the area is 15 sq. in?

To find area, you use:

L*W=A

We know the area, so let's plug that in.

L*W=15

We also received more information. Let's say the length is the longer side.

L=W+2

Let's plug that in for L.

W (W+2) = 15

W²+2W=15

You can find W by putting it in a graph. You could also solve by guessing and checking.

So, the shorter side is 3 inches long.