Solve the formula for y

Question

X=3y-5/4 

i couldn't find a way to write a line between 3y-5 and 4.

Answer 1

Solving a formula for a variable is all about gradually removing everything attached to that variable. Right now you have:

 

x = (3y - 5) / 4

 

First, we'll deal with the 4. To get rid of a division by 4 (which is what that / means), you'll need to do the opposite: multiply by 4. Remember, anything we do to one side of the equation, we have to do to the other. So, let's multiply both sides of the equation by 4:

 

4x = 4(3y - 5) / 4

4x = 3y - 5

 

Next, we'll deal with the 5. To get rid of a subtraction by 5, you'll need to do the opposite: add 5. So, let's add 5 to both sides of the equation:

 

4x + 5 = 3y - 5 + 5

4x + 5 = 3y

 

Finally, we'll deal with the 3. To get rid of a multiplication by 3, you'll need to do the opposite: divide by 3. So, let's divide both sides of the equation by 3:

 

(4x + 5) / 3 = 3y/3

(4x + 5) / 3 = y

 

Now that y is by itself, you're finished! The formula is solved for y.