Literal Equations

Literal EquationsVocabularyA literal equation is an equation that shows the relationship between two or more variables.Formulas are special types of literal equations.How do you transform a literal equation?To transform a literal equation, you solve for one variable in terms of the others. This means that you get the variable you are solving for alone on one side of the equation.

For example:Solve for the Solve for the

Move everything away from the side of the triangle by performing the opposite operation.Solving for the You try Solving for the How did you do?

Did you get the circle by itself on one side?How did you get rid of the triangle?How are these similar to equations?You must still use the properties of equations to solve them.

Addition property of equality: Theproperty of equalitystates that if the same amount is added to both sides of an equation, then theequalityis still true.Subtraction property of equality: States that when both sides of an equation have the same numbersubtractedfrom them, the remaining expressions are still equal. For example: If 5 = 5, then 5 - 2 = 5 - 2.TheMultiplication Property of Equalitystates that if you multiply both sides of an equation by the same number, the sides remain equal (i.e.equalityis preserved).TheDivision Property of Equalitystates that if you divide both sides of an equation by the same nonzero number, the sides remain equal.

Example problems#1 Use the subtraction property and division properties as justification#2 Use the subtraction property and division properties as justification.#3 Use the subtraction property and division properties as justification.#4 Use the multiplication property and subtraction property as justification.#5 Use A=15.