Solving Literal Equations

Front

What is a literal equation?

Back

A literal equation is an equation that contains two or more variables. It is often solved for one variable in terms of the others.

Front

How do you isolate a variable in an equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, you perform inverse operations to move other terms to the opposite side of the equation.

Front

What is the first step to solve the equation 8x + 4y = 16 for y?

Back

Subtract 8x from both sides to get 4y = 16 - 8x.

Front

What is the solution for y in the equation 8x + 4y = 16?

Back

y = -2x + 4.

Front

What does it mean to solve for a variable?

Back

To solve for a variable means to express that variable in terms of the other variables in the equation.

Front

What is the first step to solve the equation M = i + r for r?

Back

Subtract i from both sides to get r = M - i.

Front

What is the solution for w in the equation w = ap?

Back

w is already isolated; it is expressed in terms of a and p.

Front

What is the first step to solve the equation m - n = 5 for m?

Back

Add n to both sides to get m = n + 5.

Front

What is the solution for r in the equation A = l * w for r?

Back

r = A / l.

Front

What is the purpose of rearranging equations?

Back

Rearranging equations helps to solve for a specific variable and understand the relationship between variables.