August 23 rd, 2013
Variable – Is a letter that stands for a number Variable Expression – Is a mathematical phrase that uses variables, numerals, and mathematical symbols
How many miles can you drive on ten gallons of gas? Vehicle TypeMilesGallonsMiles per Gallon Subcompact ÷ 10 Compact ÷ 10 Mid-Size Sedan ÷ 10 Sport Utility Vehicle ÷ 10 Pickup Truck ÷ 10
Suppose you don’t know the number of miles, what can we do? Use a variable! ▪ Let m = the number of miles on 10 gallons ▪ The variable expression for miles per gallon would therefore be m ÷ 10
What is the difference between the above expressions? Can you come up with an example of each?
We can translate words into variable expressions Word PhraseVariable Expression Nine more than a number yy less than a number n A number z times three A number a divided by 12 5 times the quantity 4 plus a number c
Bagels cost $0.50 each. Write a variable expression for the cost of b bagels. Answer :0.50b