Literal Equations

Literal Equations

What is a literal equation?

• A literal equation is an equation with more than one variable.

• Often represents a formula which can be applied to the physical world. ex) A = 1/2(b)(h). The formula represents the area of a triangle, what if we wanted to solve for b or h?

• We aren't solving for a specific numeric value. Our goal is to isolate a variable such a b or h in the previous example. This creates a new formula that we can use to easily calculate a specific value.

• Simplify both sides of the equation if like terms are present.

• Isolate the indicated variable using inverse operations.

How to solve a literal equation:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UjwyC738_zg

Multiple Choice

Solve for R.

I = E/R

• R = I(E)

• R = E/I

• R = I/E

• R = E(I)

Multiple Choice

Solve for x.

• x = wa - b

• x = b - wa

• x = wb - a

• x = (w/a) - b