Explanation:

- Let's say the original length of the rectangle is L and the breadth is B.

- The original area is L × B.

- Length decreased by 20%, so new length = 0.8L.

- Breadth decreased by 40%, so new breadth = 0.6B.

- New area = 0.8L × 0.6B = 0.48LB.

- Percentage decrease in area = [(Original Area - New Area) / Original Area] × 100

- = [(LB - 0.48LB) / LB] × 100

- = 0.52 × 100 = 52%

Option 2: 52