Very quick algebraic manipulation help

  • Thread starter Thread starter dalarev
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Manipulation
AI Thread Summary
To solve the equation (X + Y)/(X - Y) * Z₀ = Zₗ for Y, the first step is to multiply both sides by (X - Y). Next, all terms involving Y should be isolated on one side of the equation, while the other terms are moved to the opposite side. The user initially struggled with the algebra but acknowledged the importance of expanding the factors correctly. The discussion highlights the common challenge of managing algebraic manipulations in problem-solving. The thread concludes with gratitude for the quick assistance provided.
dalarev
Messages
94
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



x and y are actually variables for another problem I have, but that doesn't matter. Given:

\frac{X+Y}{X-Y}*Z_{0} = Z_{L}


The Attempt at a Solution



I'm trying to solve for Y here. I have the answer, it's part of my notes, but I can't work out the algebra to derive it.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Hi dalarev! :wink:

Just multiply both sides by (X - Y), and then put all the Y terms on one side, and all the other terms on the other side. :smile:
 
tiny-tim said:
Hi dalarev! :wink:

Just multiply both sides by (X - Y), and then put all the Y terms on one side, and all the other terms on the other side. :smile:

Doh! :facepalm:

I tried to do it in my head and forgot the expand the factors I get on each side. Geez..


Thanks for the quick response, /thread.
 
I picked up this problem from the Schaum's series book titled "College Mathematics" by Ayres/Schmidt. It is a solved problem in the book. But what surprised me was that the solution to this problem was given in one line without any explanation. I could, therefore, not understand how the given one-line solution was reached. The one-line solution in the book says: The equation is ##x \cos{\omega} +y \sin{\omega} - 5 = 0##, ##\omega## being the parameter. From my side, the only thing I could...
Back
Top