Simplify Equation: How to Solve for C?

  • Thread starter Skullmonkee
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In summary, the conversation is about simplifying an equation in the form of 1/A=B(1/C-1/D). The person is having trouble solving for C and is stuck at the step 1 = C(1/AB + 1/D). They are advised to let x = 1/AB + 1/D and solve for C, which leads to C = 1/(1/AB + 1/D). This can be further simplified using the equations \frac{a}{b}+\frac{x}{y}=\frac{ay+bx}{by} and \frac{1}{\left(\frac{a}{b}\right)}=\frac{b}{a}. The final simplified answer is C
  • #1
Skullmonkee
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i'm having trouble simplifying an equation.
Basically it's in the form of [tex]1/A=B(1/C-1/D)[/tex]
Now what i can't to do is solve for C.

I get to [tex]1 = C(1/AB + 1/D)[/tex] but do not know where to go from there.

Any help would be much appreciated, thanks.
 
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  • #2
First of all we need to verify your starting equation, is it:

[tex] \frac 1 A = B (\frac 1 C - \frac 1 D )[/tex]
 
  • #3
Skullmonkee said:
I get to [tex]1 = C(1/AB + 1/D)[/tex] but do not know where to go from there.

Yes you're nearly there.

Let [tex]\frac{1}{AB}+\frac{1}{D}=x[/tex] so now we have [tex]1=Cx[/tex]

What would you do at this point to solve (isolate the variable) for C?
 
  • #4
Yes intergral, that is the starting equation.

Thanks Mentallic but i have a question.

If i isolate the variable, C won't i get something like this:

Let x be as you have stated. C = 1/x

Now wouldn't the equation be C = 1/(1/AB + 1/D). Is this as far as i can go?
 
  • #5
Ok good, you've solved for C. However, it can be simplified further.

Are you aware of the results:

[tex]\frac{a}{b}+\frac{x}{y}=\frac{ay+bx}{by}[/tex] by finding the lowest common denominator?

and

[tex]\frac{1}{\left(\frac{a}{b}\right)}=\frac{b}{a}[/tex] ?

Applying these two ideas, you'll be able to simplify the answer :smile:
 
  • #6
Thankyou.

I used the equations that you gave me (forgotten high school maths) and was able to get:

C = ABD/D+AB

I hope this is correct?
 
  • #7
That's correct all right!
 

1. What is the purpose of simplifying equations?

Simplifying equations allows us to solve for a specific variable, making the equation easier to understand and work with. It also helps to identify relationships between different variables in the equation.

2. How do I know which variable to solve for in an equation?

The variable you want to solve for is typically the one that you are trying to find the value of. In the equation, look for the variable that is not known or given and that you want to find the value of.

3. What are the steps to simplify an equation and solve for a variable?

The steps to simplify an equation and solve for a variable are as follows:
1. Use the distributive property to remove any parentheses.
2. Combine like terms by adding or subtracting them.
3. Move all terms containing the variable you want to solve for to one side of the equation.
4. Isolate the variable by undoing any operations (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division) that are being performed on it.
5. Check your answer by plugging it back into the original equation.

4. Can I use the same steps to simplify any type of equation?

Yes, the steps to simplify an equation and solve for a variable can be applied to any type of equation, whether it is linear, quadratic, exponential, etc. However, the specific operations needed to isolate the variable may differ depending on the type of equation.

5. What should I do if I get a negative value for the variable when solving an equation?

If you get a negative value for the variable, it could mean that the equation has no real solutions, or that your answer is incorrect. Check your work and make sure you have followed the correct steps to isolate the variable. You may also need to consider any restrictions on the variable, such as it cannot be negative.

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