Solving Literal Equations Literal equations are equations with

Solving Literal Equations

Literal equations are equations with two or more variables Formulas are literal equations. Literal equations are solved the same way as equations, by using inverse operations. Examples: d = rt A = ½ bh m + n = 3 p

Quick Review: Constant: is a value that does not change. Variable: is a value that can change.

Solving for a variable in a formula can make it easier to use that formula. The process is similar to that of solving multi-step equations. Find the operations being performed on the variable you are solving for, and then use inverse operations.

The formula A = lw relates the area A of a rectangle to its length l and width w. Solve the formula for w. A = lw Operations w is multiplied by l Solve using Inverse Operations Divide both sides by l The formula P = 2 l + 2 w relates the perimeter of a rectangle to two times its length and two times the width. Solve the formula for w. P = 2 l + 2 w Operations w is multiplied by 2 then 2 l is added Solve using Inverse Operations Subtract 2 l to both sides The divide both sides by 2

The formula A = 1/2 bh relates the area A of a triangle to its base b and height h. Solve the formula for b. b is multiplied by 1/2 multiply both sides by 2/1 b is multiplied by h divide both sides by h Simplify

Any equation with two or more variables can be solved for any given variable. Solve for y: y – z is divided by 10 multiply both sides by 10 Z is subtracted from y Add z to both sides x =

No matter how simple or involved the equation or formula is just remember to isolate the indicated variable and use the inverse operation for each step of the way.