Literal Equations

Front

Inverse of division

Back

multiplication

Front

Solve: C = 2πr, for r

Back

C/(2π) = r

Front

Solve for y: 5x - y = 16

Back

y = 5x - 16

Front

Solve for x: ax + c = R

Back

x = (R-c) / a

Front

Solve for n: pV = nRT

Back

n = pV/RT

Front

Definition of a literal equation

Back

An equation that contains two or more variables.

Front

What is the first step in solving a literal equation?

Back

Isolate one variable on one side of the equation.

Front

Example of rearranging a literal equation: A = lw, solve for l

Back

l = A/w

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

To manipulate the equation so that the variable is alone on one side.

Front

Solve for b: A = 1/2 bh

Back

b = 2A/h