Changing the subject of a formula

  • Thread starter chuckienz
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In summary, to change the subject of a formula, you need to isolate the desired variable and perform the inverse operation on the other side of the equation. This is done to solve for a specific variable or make the formula easier to work with. It is possible to change the subject of a formula without altering its meaning, as long as the equation remains balanced. This can also be done with multiple variables, following certain rules such as balancing the equation and being careful with negative numbers and fractions.
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chuckienz
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Ok, this most likely will be a silly question but I am having trouble trying to make X the subject of the formula XA +BA = B

im hoping someone is able to enlighten me

Thanks
 
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  • #2
What are X, A and B? It matters as it tells you what rules of manipulation are valid.

You can certainly subtract BA from both sides:

XA = B-BA

Now you need to 'divide' by A. If this is about real numbers, X=(B-BA)/A.

(If it were matrices then assuming A is invertible, X=(B-BA)A^-1.)
 

Related to Changing the subject of a formula

1. How do you change the subject of a formula?

To change the subject of a formula, you need to isolate the desired variable on one side of the equation and perform the inverse operation on the other side. This will effectively change the subject of the formula to the desired variable.

2. What is the purpose of changing the subject of a formula?

The purpose of changing the subject of a formula is to solve for a specific variable or to make the formula easier to work with by putting the desired variable in a more convenient position.

3. Can you change the subject of a formula without altering its meaning?

Yes, as long as the operations used to change the subject are performed on both sides of the equation, the meaning of the formula will not be altered. This is because the equation remains balanced.

4. Is it possible to change the subject of a formula with multiple variables?

Yes, it is possible to change the subject of a formula with multiple variables. This involves isolating the desired variable and performing operations on the other variables to keep the equation balanced.

5. Are there any rules or guidelines for changing the subject of a formula?

Yes, there are a few rules to keep in mind when changing the subject of a formula. These include performing the same operation on both sides of the equation, keeping the equation balanced, and being careful with negative numbers and fractions.

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