Formulas
Lesson Preview
What You'll Learn
- To transform literal equations
… And Why
To solve problems involving temperature, as in Example 4
Transforming Literal Equations
A literal equation is an equation involving two or more variables. Formulas are special types of literal equations. 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.
Transforming Geometric Formulas
GeometrySolve the formula for the area of a triangle A = 
bh for height h.
Extension Click here to view the Extension for this lesson.
Transforming Equations
Sometimes an equation will only have variables. Transforming this type of equation is no different from transforming equations with numbers.
Transforming Equations Containing Only Variables
You can transform a formula so that it is in a convenient form for solving real-world problems.
Real-World 
Connection
Temperature The formula C = 
(F – 32) gives the Celsius temperature C in terms of the Fahrenheit temperature F. Transform the formula to find Fahrenheit temperature in terms of Celsius temperature. Then find the Fahrenheit temperature when the Celsius temperature is 30
.
Exercises Click here to view the Exercises for this lesson.
