I got this question on my assignment, and I have no idea how to solve it. Any idea?

Question

The perimeter, P, of a rectangle is found using the formula P = 2l + 2w, where l is the length of the rectangle and w is the width of the rectangle.

Solve the formula for w.

Answer 1

Using the formula P=2l + 2w we can solve for w using some algebra.

First, we want to isolate the 2w by subtracting 2l from both sides.

P -2l = 2l + 2w - 2l -> P - 2l = 2l - 2l + 2W Remember: whatever we do to one side we must do to the other!

Since 2l -2l = 0 we get

P - 2l = 2w

Now we can multiple both sides by one half giving us 'w' by itself!

(1/2)(P-2l) = 2w(1/2)

The twos on the right side cancel out since 2/2 = 1.

That leaves us with our answer!

(1/2)(P-2l) = w or (P-2I)/2 = w

Answer 2

I hope this helps you understand how to solve literal equations (equations like formulas with extra variables). If you need more help, please reach out to me! I'd be happy to set up a time for us to meet virtually!