# I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?

• November 15th 2012, 10:20 PM
FKrueger12
I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
The question reads as follows:

A 12x12-inch square is divided into n^2 congruent squares by equally spaced lines parallel to its sides. circles are inscribed in each of the squares. Find the sum of the areas of the circles.
OOO
Underneath the word problem there is a picture with 6 circles stacked like this OOO except without the space between them the circles touch eachother but I thought maybe the picture was a hint for solving the eqation?

If you could please help me in solving this and please teach me how to solve this in the process. I want to know that answer but hopefully learn how to get to the answer. Thank you

I tried to take a picure of the problem and then posted it as an attachment.
• November 15th 2012, 10:26 PM
MarkFL
Re: I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
You know there will be $n^2$ circles, so we need the radius of the circles...can you find the diameter?
• November 16th 2012, 05:30 AM
FKrueger12
Re: I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
Im not even sure where to start on this problem. would you devide 12x12 by n^2
• November 17th 2012, 05:19 AM
FKrueger12
Re: I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
Anyone have any help for me on this problem?
• November 17th 2012, 05:45 AM
Plato
Re: I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
Quote:

Originally Posted by FKrueger12
A 12x12-inch square is divided into n^2 congruent squares by equally spaced lines parallel to its sides. circles are inscribed in each of the squares. Find the sum of the areas of the circles.

You have $n^2$ congruent squares, so each square has a side length of $\frac{12}{n}$, so each circle has radius equal $\frac{6}{n}$. WHY?

What is the area of each circle?

Sum those up.
• November 17th 2012, 06:13 AM
skeeter
Re: I have a little geometry/algebra problem, if you could help?
post geometry problems in the geometry forum, please. the lobby is for introductions.