Balancing f=v/a: What to Change to Divide f/2

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around manipulating the equation f = v/a, specifically focusing on how to adjust the equation to express f/2 and subsequently determine the variable a.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore how to modify the equation to achieve f/2, with some suggesting dividing both sides by 2. There is also confusion regarding the intent behind the manipulation and the process of isolating a.

Discussion Status

The discussion includes various interpretations of how to approach the problem, with some participants providing guidance on manipulating the equation. However, there is no explicit consensus on the best method to proceed, and multiple interpretations are being explored.

Contextual Notes

Participants express uncertainty about the meaning of the original poster's request and the implications of dividing the equation. There is an emphasis on the importance of maintaining balance in the equation during manipulation.

Ry122
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in f=v/a
i want to divide f/2. What do i change on the other side
of the equation? I need to determine a
 
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I am confused, what do you want to do to it? Do you want f/2 on one side?

f= v/a

Divide both sides by 2.
f/2 = v/(2a)
 
O and as for determining a, I am lost as well, as to what you mean.

f=v/a
fa=v
a=v/f
 
One basic rule in manipulating equations is to remember that what you do to one side of an equation, do exactly to the other side as well.

So, here we go:
[tex]f = \frac{v}{a}[/tex]
If we want to have f/2, i.e, we have to divide the LHS by 2, right? So, we should also divide the RHS by 2, like this:
[tex]\frac{f}{2} = \frac{\frac{v}{a}}{2} = \frac{v}{2a}[/tex]---------------------------Now, say we want to solve for a, we will try to isolate a to one side of the equation, like this:

[tex]f = \frac{v}{a}[/tex]

Multiply both sides by a to obtain:

[tex]\Rightarrow fa = \frac{v}{a} \times a = v[/tex]

The LHS has fa, and we want it to be a, so we divide both sides by f, and arrive at:

[tex]\Rightarrow \frac{fa}{f} = \frac{v}{f}[/tex]

[tex]\Rightarrow a = \frac{v}{f}[/tex]
 

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