Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: p < q
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:(Recovery–First applied) The square minimizes perimeter for a given area among all rectangles. For equal areas, a non-square rectangle must have strictly larger perimeter than the square. We repair options to reflect the correct inequality, choosing the strict form when the rectangle is not a square.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:For fixed area A, by AM–GM (or calculus), the rectangle with minimum perimeter is the square. Thus p (square) is minimal, and any non-square rectangle has q > p.
Step-by-Step Solution (idea):
Let the rectangle have sides x and A/x. Perimeter = 2(x + A/x) ≥ 4√A with equality at x = √A (i.e., square).Hence for a non-square rectangle, 2(x + A/x) > 4√A, so q > p.Verification / Alternative check:Pick A = 100. Square 10×10 has p = 40. Rectangle 5×20 has q = 50 > 40.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:p > q contradicts the extremal property; p = q holds only if the rectangle is also a square; “none” is unnecessary since the strict inequality is known.
Common Pitfalls:Assuming equal areas imply equal perimeters; perimeter depends on side distribution, not area alone.
Final Answer:p < q
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