Question

A swimming pool is to be built in the shape of the letter L. The shape is formed from two squares with side dimensions x and √x as shown. If the area of the pool is 30 m² , what is the value of x.

(a) 6 m 

(b) 5 m 

(c) 16 m 

(d) 9 m

Answer 1

(b) 5 m

The total area of the pool = Sum of areas of two squares = (x)² +(√x)² = x² + x

Given, x² + x = 30

⇒ x² + x - 30 = 0

⇒ (x + 6)(x - 5) = 0

⇒ x = -6, 5   ⇒ x = 5   (∴ Length cannot be –ve)