If a figure has a perimeter of 42 cm, which of the following could be its dimension?

If a figure has a perimeter of 42 cm, which of the following could be its dimension?

• A. 20 cm
• B. 42 cm
• C. 36 cm
• D. 30 cm

Answer: (B)

The correct choice indicates that if a figure has a perimeter of 42 cm, one of its dimensions could indeed be 42 cm. This is because the perimeter of a figure is the total distance around its edges. In the case of a two-dimensional figure like a rectangle, if one side measures 42 cm, the opposite side could also measure a corresponding amount that, when added to the other sides, continues to total 42 cm. For example, if you consider a rectangle where one dimension is 42 cm, it is possible to have a very narrow shape, such that the other dimension is significantly smaller, potentially approaching zero. Hence, having a dimension of 42 cm aligns perfectly with the overall requirement that the perimeter remains 42 cm. In this context, choosing a dimension that exactly matches the perimeter is valid, as it contributes to the total distance.

The correct choice indicates that if a figure has a perimeter of 42 cm, one of its dimensions could indeed be 42 cm. This is because the perimeter of a figure is the total distance around its edges. In the case of a two-dimensional figure like a rectangle, if one side measures 42 cm, the opposite side could also measure a corresponding amount that, when added to the other sides, continues to total 42 cm.

For example, if you consider a rectangle where one dimension is 42 cm, it is possible to have a very narrow shape, such that the other dimension is significantly smaller, potentially approaching zero. Hence, having a dimension of 42 cm aligns perfectly with the overall requirement that the perimeter remains 42 cm.

In this context, choosing a dimension that exactly matches the perimeter is valid, as it contributes to the total distance.