Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: 47.5%
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:Scaling linear dimensions affects perimeter linearly. Given a fixed relation between length and breadth, we can express the perimeter in terms of one variable and compare before/after values.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:Perimeter scales with the sum of side lengths; compute the new perimeter and compare to the original.
Step-by-Step Solution:
P(new) = 2(3.9x + 2x) = 2 * 5.9x = 11.8x Increase% = [(11.8x − 8x) / 8x] * 100% = (3.8 / 8) * 100% = 47.5%Verification / Alternative check:Pick x = 10: P(old) = 80; P(new) = 118; increase = 38 on 80 = 47.5%, confirming the ratio result.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:20%, 25%, and 27% underestimate the effect because both sides scale appreciably; the exact linear computation gives 47.5%.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing perimeter (linear) with area (quadratic) scaling, or adding 30% and 100% naively to get 130% which is unrelated to perimeter percent change.
Final Answer:47.5%
Discussion & Comments