A rectangular prism has a volume of 288 cubic meters. If the length is twice the width and the height is 6 meters, what is the width?

Wed, 06 May 2026 23:36:36 +0000

**A rectangular prism has a volume of 288 cubic meters. If the length is twice the width and the height is 6 meters, what is the width?**
Understanding volume formulas often feels like unlocking a simple puzzle—yet its real-world applications surprise many. With growing interest in spatial design, efficient packing, and architectural planning across the U.S., many are turning to geometry to solve practical problems. One common scenario involves a rectangular prism—a box-shaped solid—where volume, dimensions, and proportions define function and design. ### Why This Problem Is More Relevant Than You Think
Rectangular prisms are everywhere: shipping containers, furniture storage, warehouse storage units, and even architectural elements. The relationship between length, width, and height directly impacts material costs, space utilization, and structural integrity. In homes and businesses alike, knowing how to reverse-engineer these dimensions helps make smarter, cost-effective decisions—especially when layouts depend on precise cubic volumes. The setup here is a classic trending in DIY projects, supply chain optimization, and educational STEM discussions. Understanding it builds conceptual clarity valuable beyond pure math. ### Solving the Puzzle: Step-by-Step
A rectangular prism’s volume equals length multiplied by width multiplied by height. Let width = *w*. According to the problem:
- Height = 6 meters
- Length = 2·w (twice the width)
- Volume = 288 cubic meters So, the equation becomes:
*V = length × width × height* → *288 = (2w) × w × 6*