# Thread: simplified expression for shapes

1. ## simplified expression for shapes

I have a rectangle with the lenght of 5c+2 and width of 9c-10. I was wondering how do i get the simplified expression for the perimeter?

2. Originally Posted by Jubbly
I have a rectangle with the lenght of 5c+2 and width of 9c-10. I was wondering how do i get the simplified expression for the perimeter?
Hi Jubbly,

Do you know that P = 2L + 2W?

Just substitute and combine like terms:

$P=2(5c+2)+2(9c-10)$

$P=10c+4+18c-20$

$P=28c-16$

That's as simplified as it gets.

3. Actually, this can be simplified more.

P=28c-16

P=4(7c-4)

4. Originally Posted by rtblue
Actually, this can be simplified more.

P=28c-16

P=4(7c-4)
An algebraic expression is in simplest form when it contains no parentheses or like terms.
www.mathchamber.com/algebra/docs/general/glossary.htm

5. well... all i know is that when i take a test, and the answer can be factored, such as the answer above, my teacher requires me to factor. She says that it is in the simplest form when factored.