Literal Equations

Front

What is a literal equation?

Back

A literal equation is an equation that contains two or more variables. It is often solved for one variable in terms of the others.

Front

How do you solve for a variable in a literal equation?

Back

To solve for a variable, isolate it on one side of the equation using algebraic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

Front

Solve for h: V = \frac{1}{3}Bh

Back

h = \frac{3V}{B}

Front

Solve for a in the equation c + a = d + r.

Back

a = d + r - c

Front

Given d = rt, solve for r.

Back

r = \frac{d}{t}

Front

Solve for h in the equation A = \frac{2A}{h}.

Back

h = \frac{2A}{A} = 2

Front

Solve for k in the equation x = \frac{4 - k}{6}.

Back

k = 4 - 6x

Front

What is the first step in solving a literal equation?

Back

Identify the variable you want to isolate and determine the operations needed to move other terms away from it.

Front

What does it mean to isolate a variable?

Back

Isolating a variable means rearranging the equation so that the variable is on one side by itself.

Front

Solve for x in the equation 2x + 3 = 7.

Back

x = 2.