MHB Inverse Variation: Solving Problem Formula

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Pressure (P) varies inversely with area (A), expressed by the formula P = k/A, where k is a constant of proportionality. To find k, substitute the given values of area and pressure, specifically (A, P) = (40, 4), into the equation. Solving for k yields a value that aligns with the relationship described. This approach illustrates how inverse variation can be applied to real-world problems involving pressure and area. Understanding this concept is crucial for solving similar mathematical problems effectively.
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What is the formula to solving a problem like this?
Thanks in advance!

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The statement that pressure $P$ varies inversely with area $A$ may be written mathematically as:

$$P=\frac{k}{A}\tag{1}$$

Where $k$ is called the constant of proportionality. We may determine $k$ from the information provided, namely that we know the pressure for a given area. We are given:

$$(A,P)=(40,4)$$

Substitute that ordered pair into equation (1), and then solve for $k$...what do you get? You should in fact find that the value of $k$ makes perfect sense here. ;)
 
Here is a little puzzle from the book 100 Geometric Games by Pierre Berloquin. The side of a small square is one meter long and the side of a larger square one and a half meters long. One vertex of the large square is at the center of the small square. The side of the large square cuts two sides of the small square into one- third parts and two-thirds parts. What is the area where the squares overlap?

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