GCSE Secondary Maths Age 13-17 - Algebra: Subject of a Formula - Explained

The video tutorial explains how to change the subject of a formula, specifically focusing on making 'a' the subject when it appears in two places. The process involves eliminating fractions, rearranging terms, and factorizing to isolate 'a'. The tutorial provides a step-by-step solution to a specific problem, highlighting key steps such as cross-multiplication and factorization. It concludes with a marking scheme and a recap of the solution process.

What is the main challenge when changing the subject of the formula in this problem?

• The presence of fractions

• The variable 'a' appears in two places

• The coefficients are complex numbers

• The formula is too long

What is the first step in solving the problem to make 'a' the subject?

• Multiply both sides by 4 - a

• Add 5 to both sides

• Subtract a from both sides

• Divide both sides by 3 + P

After expanding the brackets, what should be done next to isolate 'a'?

• Subtract 5 from both sides

• Add 5 to both sides

• Divide by 4

• Multiply by 3 + P

How do you factorize the terms to isolate 'a'?

• Combine like terms

• Use the distributive property

• Factor out 'a' from the terms

• Add 'a' to both sides

What is the final step to solve for 'a'?

• Add 3 to both sides

• Multiply by 4

• Divide by 3 + P

• Subtract P from both sides