Q&A for How to Solve Literal Equations

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How do I solve 3x + w - r = y?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Because you're working with four variables, you would need a total of four separate equations, each containing those variables, in order to find their values.

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Question

In the equation Perimeter = 2(L + W), what is L?

Donagan

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L is the length of whatever figure you're working with.

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For the equation 12am = 4, how do I solve for a?

Donagan

Top Answerer

Divide both sides of the equation by 12m.

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Question

How do I solve for X?

Community Answer

The main strategy for solving for X is to get X alone on one side of the equation, and whatever is on the other side of the equation is your answer for what X is. The technique to do this varies depending on what kind of equation you are given.

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Question

How would I solve k = am + 3mx?

Donagan

Top Answerer

It depends on which variable you're trying to solve for. (You've already solved for k.) Use standard algebraic processes to isolate the desired variable on one side of the equation. For example, to solve for m, factor m out of the right side of the equation: k = m(a + 3x). Then divide both sides by (a + 3x): k / (a + 3x) = m. Similarly, you can solve for a or x.

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Question

How do I solve a = 1/2ap?

Donagan

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When you have two variables, you must be given two independent equations in those variables in order to solve for them. One equation is not enough information in this case.

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Question

How can I solve (A1/Ao) = B1/Bo for Bo?

Community Answer

You can solve for Bo in terms of the other variables. Setting these against each other as fractions, you'll see your problem as displayed. By multiplying the denominator of one and the numerator of the other across from (an =) and the denominator and numerator of the others, you'll eventually arrive at A1Bo=B1Ao. Dividing both sides by A1 (to get Bo), you'll get Bo=B1Ao/A1, your answer.

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