A rectangular shaped desk has a length of 30 inches and a width of 24 inches. A desk with a similar shape has a length of 48 inches. What is the width of this desk?

24/30 = x/48

https://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/cross-multiply.html

24/30 = x/40

24x40=960
30xX= 30x
30x=960 960/30=32
x = 32

To find the width of the second desk, we can use the concept of similar shapes.

Since the two desks have a similar shape, their corresponding sides are proportional.

So, we can set up a proportion using the length and width of the first desk and the length and width of the second desk.

The proportion can be set up as:

(length of first desk) / (width of first desk) = (length of second desk) / (width of second desk)

Plugging in the values we know:

30 inches / 24 inches = 48 inches / (width of second desk)

To solve for the width of the second desk, we can cross-multiply and solve for (width of second desk):

30 inches * (width of second desk) = 24 inches * 48 inches

720 inches = 24 inches * (width of second desk)

Divide both sides by 24 inches:

720 inches / 24 inches = (width of second desk)

The width of the second desk is 30 inches.

To find the width of the second desk, you can set up a proportion using the ratios of the lengths and widths of the two desks.

Let's call the width of the second desk "x".

The proportion can be set up as:

Width of first desk / Length of first desk = Width of second desk / Length of second desk

Substituting the given values:

24 inches / 30 inches = x / 48 inches

To solve for "x", you can cross-multiply and solve for it:

24 inches * 48 inches = 30 inches * x

1152 square inches = 30 inches * x

To isolate "x", divide both sides of the equation by 30 inches:

1152 square inches / 30 inches = x

Simplifying the result:

x ≈ 38.4 inches

Therefore, the width of the second desk is approximately 38.4 inches.