Algebra 26 - Solving Literal Equations

Professor Von Schmohawk introduces the concept of linear equations and their real-world applications. The video explains literal equations, which involve variables representing quantities, and demonstrates how to rearrange formulas to isolate specific variables. Examples include converting temperatures and calculating dimensions. The video also covers solving equations with multiple occurrences of a variable. The lecture concludes with a summary and a preview of the next topic.

What is a literal equation?

• An equation with no real-world application

• An equation with only one variable

• An equation that uses letters to represent quantities

• An equation that cannot be solved

Which formula is used to convert Celsius to Fahrenheit?

• F = C - 32

• F = C * 5/9 + 32

• F = C * 9/5 + 32

• F = C + 32

How do you isolate a variable in a formula?

• By adding the same number to both sides

• By multiplying both sides by zero

• By ignoring the other variables

• By rearranging the formula to have the variable alone on one side

What is the formula for the perimeter of a rectangle?

• p = 2l + 2w

• p = l + w

• p = l * w

• p = 2(l + w)

What is the result of multiplying a number by its reciprocal?

• Negative one

• One

• The number itself

• Zero

What is the purpose of rearranging a formula?

• To make it more complex

• To isolate a specific variable

• To add more variables

• To eliminate all variables

What is the first step in solving the equation a = b/2c for c?

• Multiply both sides by c

• Add c to both sides

• Subtract b from both sides

• Divide both sides by 2

How can you simplify a complex fraction?

• By adding the fractions

• By multiplying the numerator by the reciprocal of the denominator

• By subtracting the fractions

• By dividing the numerator by the denominator

When solving for a variable that appears more than once, what property is used?

• Commutative property

• Associative property

• Distributive property

• Identity property

What is the final step in solving an equation for a variable that appears twice?

• Use the distributive property to factor out the variable

• Subtract the terms

• Add the terms together

• Multiply the terms