Help me convert this relationship into a linear equation

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on converting the equation (at²)/2 = 0.25 - t(2ah)⁰.⁵ into a linear relationship where 'a' represents the gradient. The user seeks methods to derive a linear equation from a non-linear one, specifically exploring logarithmic transformations. The conversation highlights the necessity of manipulating the equation to isolate 'a' and suggests that subtracting 0.25 and squaring both sides will yield a quadratic equation in 'a'.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of algebraic manipulation and quadratic equations
  • Familiarity with logarithmic functions and their properties
  • Knowledge of linear relationships and gradients in mathematics
  • Basic skills in solving equations for specific variables
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for transforming non-linear equations into linear forms
  • Learn about the application of logarithmic transformations in algebra
  • Study techniques for isolating variables in quadratic equations
  • Explore graphical representations of equations with logarithmic axes
USEFUL FOR

Mathematicians, students studying algebra, and anyone interested in transforming equations for analysis or application in real-world scenarios.

kd001
Messages
42
Reaction score
0
Is there anyway I can convert the attached equation into a linear relationship so that 'a' is the gradient of the straight line. 't' and 'h' are both variables. It doesn't matter exactly what the x and y values are. I just need 'a' to be the gradient of the straight line. I tried lots of different things but couldn't manage it. I would appreciate it very much if anybody can help me with this.

Thanks a lot.
 

Attachments

  • formula.jpg
    formula.jpg
    2.4 KB · Views: 408
Mathematics news on Phys.org
I typed the formula because I'm not sure if the attachment can be seen. I hope its clear enough

(at2)/2 = 0.25 - t(2ah)0.5
 
You can use the quadratic formula to get t as a function of h, but the relationship is not
linear.
 
I know the equation I wrote is not linear but is it possible to make it linear? For example sometimes it is possible to take logs to make a relationship linear. I'm not saying this is the case here but are there any other such 'tricks' to derive a linear equation from the one I wrote? I just need the gradient to be 'a'. I hope I'm making myself clear.

The reason I'm trying to do this is that I've got a series of known values for 't' and 'h' and I wanted calculate 'a' from the gradient of a straight line. Obviously if a linear relationship can be derived, the x and y values aren't going to be 't' or 'h' but some other value that can be given in terms of these variables.
 
Last edited:
If what I'm trying to do doesn't make sense to anyone, then what do you think would be the best way of calculating 'a', from the given values of 'h' and 't'?
 
When you took the logarithm of an equation such as y=ex to create a linear equation, you were supposed to be taking the logarithm of BOTH sides, so basically you have ln(y)=x. This means that you can have a linear equation (even though this expression is still the same as y=ex) if you plot the function on axes that are not linear. You can have the usual x axis, but you'll have to change the y-axis to ln(y).

i.e. at the point y=1, you should instead have ln(y)=0 on your axis. At y=e\approx 2.718 you should instead have y=1. At y=e2, y=2 etc.

OR you can keep the y-axis the same, but change the x-axis to ex so at the usual x=1 point, instead have x=e etc.

With a bit of ingenuity, you can apply the same concept to your problem.

However, I'm unsure if this is what you're looking for.
 
I am still struggling with this. Can someone at least show me how to solve the equation for 'a'?

Thanks a lot.
 
kd001 said:
Can someone at least show me how to solve the equation for 'a'?

Subtract 0.25 from both sides, then square both sides. You should end up with a quadratic equation in a.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
3K
  • · Replies 21 ·
Replies
21
Views
4K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
  • · Replies 29 ·
Replies
29
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
1K