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 a literal equation?

Back

To isolate a variable, you perform inverse operations to both sides of the equation until the variable is alone on one side.

Front

Solve for F: S = 3F - 24

Back

F = (S + 24)/3

Front

Solve for a: A = pw

Back

a = w/p

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

Solve for x: 5x - 10 = 0

Back

x = 2

Front

What is the first step in solving the equation 5x - y = 16 for y?

Back

Add y to both sides to get y = 5x - 16.

Front

Solve for x: x + 3y = 12

Back

x = 12 - 3y

Front

What is the formula for converting Celsius to Fahrenheit?

Back

F = (9/5)C + 32

Front

Solve for b: A = 1/2 bh

Back

b = (2A)/h