The discussion revolves around rearranging the formula 10b + 5be - 3e + 7c to make e the subject. Participants are examining the validity of the initial setup and the steps taken to isolate e.
Participants are actively engaging with the problem, offering guidance on the need for parentheses and discussing the implications of different interpretations of the initial expression. There is no explicit consensus on the correct approach yet, as various interpretations are being explored.
There is a noted concern regarding the lack of an equation in the initial setup, which affects the ability to solve for e. The discussion also touches on the importance of clarity in mathematical expressions.
You're not starting with an equation! Without the first line below being an equation, you can't solve for anything.Gringo123 said:I need to rearrange this formula to make e the subject. Have I done it correctly?
Assuming that this is your starting equation -- 10b + 5be - 3e = 7c -- your work following it is fine, EXCEPT that you need to use parentheses. You should write e this way:Gringo123 said:10b + 5be - 3e + 7c
10b + 5be - 3e = 7c
5be - 3e = 7c - 10b
e(5b - 3) = 7c - 10b
e = 7c - 10b / 5b - 3
Mark44 said:You're not starting with an equation! Without the first line below being an equation, you can't solve for anything.
Assuming that this is your starting equation -- 10b + 5be - 3e = 7c -- your work following it is fine, EXCEPT that you need to use parentheses. You should write e this way:
e = (7c - 10b) / (5b - 3)