Rearranging Equation: Steps for Solving mg+ma-Mg=-Ma with Example

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around rearranging the equation mg + ma - Mg = -Ma, which involves algebraic manipulation to isolate the variable a. The subject area is algebra, specifically focusing on equation rearrangement and solving for a variable.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various methods for isolating the variable a, including moving terms to one side, factoring, and dividing by coefficients. Some express confusion about the steps involved in the rearrangement process.

Discussion Status

There is an ongoing exchange of ideas regarding the steps to rearrange the equation. One participant has expressed clarity after receiving guidance, indicating that helpful insights have been shared, though no consensus on a single method has been reached.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention the basic nature of the problem, suggesting that it may be a common homework task. There is an emphasis on ensuring that the variable a is isolated correctly, with various interpretations of the steps involved in the process.

tahic
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Could someone please write the steps in rearranging this ..I just can't get it

mg+ma-Mg=-Ma

becomes
a=(M-m/M+m)g


Sorry it's so basic
Thanks
 
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Put terms with a on one side, terms with g on the other side. Factor out a and g. Divide one side by the coefficient on the other side.
 
tahic said:
Could someone please write the steps in rearranging this ..I just can't get it
mg+ma-Mg=-Ma
becomes
a=(M-m/M+m)g
Sorry it's so basic
Thanks

Algebra. You're trying to get a "by itself".

One way would be to start by getting two things you can factor.

Step one: Bring ma to the right by subtracting it from both sides, which gives: mg - Mg = -Ma - ma.

Step two: Factor both sides: g(m - M) = a(-M - m)

Step three: Divide: g(m - M)/(-M - m) = a

A.K.A. = a = g(m - M)/(-M - m).

Or at least that's how I'd do it. Not sure if that's what you have.
 
Excellent that's cleared it up for me.
Thanks again.
 

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