Area is measured by the formula A=L*W (Area = Length X Width) We know the area is 38 1/4 and the width is 4 1/2. It is easiest to convert them to decimals and solve. 38 1/4 = 38.25 and 4 1/2= 4.5 . so, 38.25 = 4.5 * W
To solve for Width, we need to isolate it by getting 4.5 on the other side. To do this, we divide by 4.5 on both sides of the equals sign. this will give us W=8.5 or Width = 8 1/2 meters.