We've updated our
Privacy Policy effective December 15. Please read our updated Privacy Policy and tap

TEXT
Unlock Solution Steps
Sign in to
Symbolab
Get full access to all Solution Steps for any math problem
By continuing, you agree to our Terms of Use
and have read our Privacy Policy

Study Guides > Prealgebra

Introduction to Using Formulas to Solve Word Problems

A formula with multiple variables written on a blackboard Scientific formulas put our math skills to the test.
If you've ever taken a science class, you're probably familiar with at least a few scientific formulas. While you might not have realized it, scientific formulas are an application of algebra. Algebra is used in almost every scientific formula such as the formula for pressure relationships, PV=nRT, and the formula for finding the density of a material, Density = Mass/Volume. We use algebra to rearrange scientific formulas and solve for one specific variable. You'll learn more about formulas and how to solve them in this section.  

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this section, you will be able to:
  • Use the distance, rate, and time formula
  • Solve a formula for a specific variable
  Before you get started in this module, try a few practice problems and review prior concepts.

Readiness quiz

1)

If you missed this problem, review this video about solving equations that require more than one step. https://youtu.be/HyUiYeLee3g 3) If you missed this problem, review this video about simple interest. https://youtu.be/iVmetUlbheY
 

Licenses & Attributions

CC licensed content, Original

  • Determine the Amount of Interest Earned (Simple Interest). Authored by: James Sousa (Mathispower4u.com) for Lumen Learning. License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Question ID 140303, 140300, 88804. Authored by: Lumen Learning. License: CC BY: Attribution. License terms: IMathAS Community License, CC-BY + GPL.

CC licensed content, Shared previously

  • Rates and Unit Rates. Authored by: James Sousa (Mathispower4u.com). License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Ex 1: Solving Two-Step Equations Using Integers. Authored by: James Sousa (Mathispower4u.com). License: CC BY: Attribution.
  • Formula. Authored by: Markus Spiske. License: CC BY: Attribution.

CC licensed content, Specific attribution