Literal Equations Chapter 9 lesson 1
What is a Literal equation? An equation or formula that has more than one variable
How to solve literal equations With a regular equation, you want to work backward from PEMDAS using inverse operations in order to solve for the given variable. Ex: 3x + 9 = 15 -9 -9 3x = 6 3 3 X = 2 With a literal equation, you want to use the same technique until you have the variable you’re solving for completely alone. Ex: A = bh , solve for b in order to get b alone, you must divide both sides by h. A = bh h h
Solve the following equation for h When solving for h, always start by writing the given equation. Use the division property and divide by 2. Use subtraction property and subtract b from both sides Since we do not know the value of b, we cannot actually subtract it from anything and therefore leave the equation as is.
1.) V = bwh , for w 2.) I = prt , for r 3.) 𝐴=𝜋 𝑟 2 , 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟 Try some on your own Solve the following 1.) V = bwh , for w 2.) I = prt , for r 3.) 𝐴=𝜋 𝑟 2 , 𝑓𝑜𝑟 𝑟
Once you solve the equation for the given variable, you can now use that new equation to solve for other solutions.