The rope was cut into 2 + 3 = <<2+3=5>>5 parts.

So each part is 40/5 = <<40/5=8>>8 meters long.

Since the shorter part is consists of 2 parts, then it is 8 x 2 = <<8*2=16>>16 meters long.

# Answer

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<|im_start|>system
You are a helpful assistant.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>user
A 40 meters rope was cut into 2 parts in the ratio of 2:3. How long is the shorter part?
Please reason step by step, and put your final answer within \boxed{{}}.<|im_end|>
<|im_start|>assistant

user
16
A 40 meters rope was cut into 2 parts in the ratio of 2:3. How long is the shorter part?
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