Rearranging an equation for pressure

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around rearranging an equation that calculates the pressure at the center of the Earth to solve for the radius (R). The equation in question is P = 2(pi*G/3)*ρ2 R2, where participants are exploring how to isolate R correctly.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to rearrange the equation but expresses uncertainty about their approach. Some participants provide alternative methods for isolating R, while others question the clarity of the notation used in the equation.

Discussion Status

There are multiple interpretations being explored regarding the rearrangement of the equation. Some guidance has been offered on isolating R, but there is no explicit consensus on the correct method yet.

Contextual Notes

Participants note difficulties with the notation and clarity of the equation, which may be impacting their understanding and attempts to rearrange it.

Katpea
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:cry:

I'm having big problems rearranging the following equation which calculates the pressure at the centre of Earth, to find R:

P = 2(pi*G/3)*ρ2 R2

Logically to me it would be:

R = 2(pi*G/3P)*ρ2 square rooted (but I'm pretty certain this isn't right!)

I've spent ages trying to sort it out and have resorted to randomly placing the figures in an attempt to find R (radius of the Earth which is known already)!

If anyone could help me sort it out in my head so that I can then rearrange the equation it would be much appreciated!
 
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Starting with:
P = 2(pi*G/3)*ρ2 R2
Isolate R2:
R2 = 3P/(2 pi G ρ2)
Now take the square root:
R = 1/ρ sqrt(3P/(2 pi G))
 
Last edited:
We need batter graphics. I'm having a hard time reading equations while trying to decipher the notations.
 
Katpea said:
:cry:

I'm having big problems rearranging the following equation which calculates the pressure at the centre of Earth, to find R:

P = 2(pi*G/3)*ρ2 R2

Logically to me it would be:

R = 2(pi*G/3P)*ρ2 square rooted (but I'm pretty certain this isn't right!)

I've spent ages trying to sort it out and have resorted to randomly placing the figures in an attempt to find R (radius of the Earth which is known already)!

If anyone could help me sort it out in my head so that I can then rearrange the equation it would be much appreciated!

What you did was on the left you should have gotten (1/R) not R, because you divided. Thats where you went wrong.
 

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