➕ Algebra 1 · Equations
Literal Equations and Formulas flashcards
Say the answer out loud before you flip. Cards you miss come back sooner; cards you know come back later. That spacing is what builds long-term memory.
All 12 flashcards at a glance
Card 1
What is a literal equation?
An equation with two or more letters (variables), often with few or no numbers, such as d = rt.
Card 2
What does “solve for t” mean?
Rearrange the equation so that t is alone on one side. The answer is a new formula, not one number.
Card 3
What is a formula?
A literal equation that describes a real relationship, such as the link between speed, distance and time.
Card 4
Solve C = 2πr for r.
r = C ÷ (2π). Divide both sides by 2π and keep the parentheses.
Card 5
Solve y = mx + b for x.
Subtract b: y − b = mx. Then divide the whole side by m: x = (y − b) ÷ m (when m ≠ 0).
Card 6
Solve W = Fd for d.
d = W ÷ F (when F ≠ 0). Divide both sides by F.
Card 7
Solve E = mc2 for m.
m = E ÷ c2 (when c ≠ 0). Divide both sides by the whole c2; the exponent stays on c.
Card 8
Solve m = 5k − 6n for n.
Subtract 5k: m − 5k = −6n. Divide both sides by −6: n = (5k − m) ÷ 6.
Card 9
The letter you want is in two terms, like x in T = x + xk. What do you do?
Factor it out: T = x(1 + k). Then divide both sides by (1 + k) to get x = T ÷ (1 + k) (when 1 + k ≠ 0).
Card 10
Why do you write “assume r ≠ 0” when you divide by r?
Dividing by 0 is not allowed. If r could be 0, the step would not be legal.
Card 11
How can you check a rearranged formula?
Pick easy numbers that fit the original formula. Plug the same numbers into the new one. Both should agree.
Card 12
In this lesson’s CCC memory trick for rearranging formulas, what do the three C’s stand for?
Circle the letter, Clear everything else with opposite moves on both sides, Check with numbers.