Rectangle sides each increased by 20%:\nBy what percentage does the area of the rectangle increase?

Introduction / Context:
Area of a rectangle scales with the product of its sides. Increasing both sides by the same percentage leads to a compounded (quadratic) increase in area.

Given Data / Assumptions:
Sides become 1.2 times original.

Concept / Approach:
New area factor = 1.2*1.2 = 1.44; percentage increase = (1.44 − 1) * 100% = 44%.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Choose numbers (10 by 10 → 100; new 12 by 12 → 144; +44%).

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
22%, 33%, 55% are linear/partial misreads; exact value is 44%.

Common Pitfalls:
Adding 20% + 20% = 40% (ignores compounding); correct is 44%.

Final Answer:
44%