Question

A rectangular field is surrounded by a fence on three of its sides, and a straight hedge on the fourth side. If the length of the fence is 320m, find the maximum area of the field enclosed.

So...how should i do it? Does it matter which of the 'three sides' they are talking about?? I don't seem to get the question... Please help!

Let x be length and y be width,
then Area = xy
Area = 320y

Answer 1

The maximum area would be a square, so let x be the length of one side.

3x = 320 and

x^2 = area

Area ≠ 320y

I hope this helps. Thanks for asking.

Answer 2

9600 m²