
To find the perimeter of a shape, we add length + width + length + width (or length * 2 + width *2). So we would multiply the width, (3.1s - 1.6), and the length, (7.2s - 4.6), by 2, and then add them together to find the perimeter.
2(3.1s - 1.6) + 2(7.2s - 4.6)
This is equal to:
6.2s + 14.4s - 3.2 - 9.2
Simplified, this is equal to:
20.6s - 12.4
(We have to switch it around, but this answer is equal to option b.)
-12.4 + 20.6s
Tip: To simplify an equation, you add like terms. Like terms are numbers that have the same variables or exponents; for example, -4 and 3 are like terms, as well as 5^2 and 8^2. (Keep in mind, the variables and/or exponents have to be the same if you combine the like terms. Numbers with different variables and exponents can never be combined!)