Find the perimeter of a square whose length measures y units?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Explanation

A square is a geometric shape defined as a quadrilateral with four equal sides and four right (90-degree) angles.
The perimeter of any polygon is the total distance around its exterior, calculated by adding the lengths of all its sides.
Given that the length of one side of the square is 'y' units, and all four sides are equal, the perimeter is the sum: y + y + y + y.
This sum simplifies to 4 times the side length, which is expressed as 4y units.

Option A: This value represents the perimeter of a regular hexagon (a six-sided polygon), not a square.
Option C: This value represents the sum of only two sides of the square (y + y = 2y), which is half the perimeter.
Option D: This value represents the perimeter of a regular octagon (an eight-sided polygon), not a square.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Perimeter of a Square as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This question assesses fundamental mathematical and logical reasoning skills, which are crucial for nurses.
Accurate mathematical ability is essential for tasks such as calculating medication dosages, determining IV drip rates, and interpreting patient data, ensuring patient safety.
What if the question asked for the area of the square? The formula would be Area = side × side, and the answer would be y² square units. This highlights the importance of correctly identifying the required formula (perimeter vs. area).

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key information provided in the question: the shape is a 'square' and the side length is 'y' units.
Next, identify what needs to be calculated: the 'perimeter'.
Recall the definition of a square, which has four sides of equal length.
Recall the definition of perimeter, which is the total length around the shape.
Formulate the calculation by adding the length of all four sides: Perimeter = y + y + y + y.
Simplify the expression to get the final formula: Perimeter = 4y.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Qr-pGkdebINS4yJ8paJxah

Practise the full SGPGI Nursing Officer-2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.