2.2 Literal Equations and Formulas

Notes

A literal equation has several variables. To solve for one variable, treat the others as numbers and use inverse operations.

• Solve $y = mx + b$ for $m$: $y - b = mx$, so $\displaystyle m = \frac{y - b}{x}$.
• Whatever you do to one side, do to the whole other side.
• Example: solve $d = rt$ for $t$: $\displaystyle t = \frac{d}{r}$.
• Divide every term when you divide, not just one.