Final answer:
The mathematics problem asks to find the shortest side of a quadrilateral with even consecutive side lengths, given the total perimeter is 244 meters. By setting an equation with the sides as n, (n+2), (n+4), (n+6), and solving for n, we determine that the shortest side is 58 meters.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student posed a mathematics problem involving a four-sided lot with the lengths of the sides in even consecutive measures. If the total length of the fence needed is 244 meters, we are asked to find the length of the shortest side. To solve this, we set up an equation with the sides represented as n, n+2, n+4, and n+6, where n is the length of the shortest side. We sum these to equal the total perimeter.
So the equation would be n + (n+2) + (n+4) + (n+6) = 244.
Simplifying, we get 4n + 12 = 244. Subtracting 12 from both sides gives us 4n = 232, and dividing both sides by 4, we find n = 58. Therefore, the length of the shortest side is 58 meters.