Optimization: Of all rectangles with perimeter P , the one with the largest area is a square of side length P/4.


True or False and explain reasoning

true

If the perimeter is p, then

2x+2y = p
y = (p-2x)/2 = p/2 - x

The area is

a = xy = x(p/2-x) = p/2 x - x^2

This is just a parabola, with vertex at x = p/4
so, y = p/4 as well,
and you have a square to get max area.