Mathematics Grade 8 15 min

Add polynomials to find perimeter

Add polynomials to find perimeter

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1

Introduction & Learning Objectives

Learning Objectives Define perimeter and identify its application to various polygons. Identify and classify polynomial expressions representing side lengths of geometric figures. Accurately identify and combine like terms within polynomial expressions. Apply the concept of adding polynomials to calculate the perimeter of polygons. Simplify polynomial expressions resulting from perimeter calculations. Solve real-world problems involving finding the perimeter of shapes with polynomial side lengths. Ever wondered how much fencing you'd need for a garden shaped like a weird polygon? 🏡 What if the side lengths aren't just numbers, but expressions with variables? In this lesson, you'll learn how to combine your knowledge of polynomials with the concept of perimet...
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Key Concepts & Vocabulary

TermDefinitionExample PerimeterThe total distance around the outside of a two-dimensional shape or polygon. It is found by adding the lengths of all its sides.For a square with side length 5 units, the perimeter is $5 + 5 + 5 + 5 = 20$ units. PolynomialAn algebraic expression consisting of one or more terms, where each term is a product of a number (coefficient) and one or more variables raised to non-negative integer powers.$3x^2 + 2x - 7$ is a polynomial. MonomialA polynomial with only one term.$5x$, $-7y^2$, $12$ Like TermsTerms in a polynomial that have the exact same variables raised to the exact same powers. Only the coefficients can be different.$4x$ and $-9x$ are like terms. $2y^2$ and $7y^2$ are like terms. $3x$ and $3x^2$ are NOT like terms. Combining Like TermsThe process of si...
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Core Formulas

Perimeter of a Polygon $P = s_1 + s_2 + s_3 + ... + s_n$ To find the perimeter of any polygon, add the lengths of all its sides. If the side lengths are polynomial expressions, you will add those expressions. Perimeter of a Rectangle $P = 2l + 2w$ For a rectangle, where $l$ is the length and $w$ is the width, you can add all four sides or use this shortcut. If $l$ and $w$ are polynomial expressions, substitute them into the formula and simplify. Combining Like Terms Rule $ax^n + bx^n = (a+b)x^n$ When adding or subtracting like terms, only add or subtract their coefficients. The variable part (including its exponent) stays the same. This rule is fundamental for simplifying polynomial perimeters.

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Sample Practice Questions

Challenging
The perimeter of a regular hexagon (a polygon with 6 equal sides) is given by the polynomial $18x^2 - 42x + 24$. What is the length of one side?
A.$108x^2 - 252x + 144$
B.$3x^2 - 7x + 4$
C.$3x^2 - 7x + 6$
D.$12x^2 - 36x + 18$
Challenging
The perimeter of a triangle is 47 units. Its sides are $(3x+2)$, $(2x-5)$, and $(4x+1)$. What is the value of x?
A.x = 4
B.x = 5
C.x = 9
D.x = 4.5
Challenging
The perimeter of a rectangle is $14x + 10$. If the length of the rectangle is $(5x + 2)$, what is the width?
A.$9x + 8$
B.$4x + 6$
C.$2x + 3$
D.$4.5x + 4$

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