Question on Isolating Variables

  • MHB
  • Thread starter Duckfan
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Variables
In summary, the person is struggling to remember how to solve an equation with two variables and is unsure if they should cancel the individual variable or treat it as a "like term." They also mention the rule of doing the same thing on both sides of the equation and provide an example of treating a+1 as a single constant. They clarify that 3x - x is equal to 2x.
  • #1
Duckfan
14
0
I was doing this last week and now I'm drawing blanks on an equation with 2 variables.

When you have a constant and a variable + a variable by itself, I forgot if I'm supposed to try to cancel the individual variable, or if I'm supposed to multiply/add it as a "like term".

I'm not giving equation yet (unless you really want me to) since I'm trying to solve this myself. And I'm beating up on myself too since I want to remember how to solve this. I'm just not remembering something as to what I isolate. I understand the rule on what you do on left side, you do on other. But the fact that I have 2 variables is confusing me-as to canceling the individual variable, or include it with the other term since it may be considered a like term.
Thank you.
 
Mathematics news on Phys.org
  • #2
If you mean something like ax+ x, that is equal to (a+ 1)x and you can treat a+ 1 as a single constant.
 
  • #3
HallsofIvy said:
If you mean something like ax+ x, that is equal to (a+ 1)x and you can treat a+ 1 as a single constant.

So if I had an equation or part of one eg, 3x - x, it would be 2x?
 
  • #4
Yes. 3x - x = x + x + x - x = x + x = 2x.
 

FAQ: Question on Isolating Variables

What is the purpose of isolating variables in a scientific experiment?

The purpose of isolating variables in a scientific experiment is to determine the specific effect of one variable on the outcome of the experiment. By holding all other variables constant, researchers can determine the true relationship between the isolated variable and the outcome.

How do you identify the variables to be isolated in an experiment?

To identify the variables to be isolated in an experiment, you must first clearly define the research question or hypothesis. Then, you must identify all the variables that could potentially affect the outcome. The variables that are not of interest and need to be held constant are the ones that need to be isolated.

What are some common methods used to isolate variables in a scientific experiment?

Some common methods used to isolate variables in a scientific experiment include controlling the environment, using control groups, and randomization. Other methods may include using blocking or matching techniques, or using statistical methods to adjust for potential confounding variables.

Why is it important to isolate variables in a scientific experiment?

Isolating variables in a scientific experiment is important because it allows researchers to determine causality between the isolated variable and the outcome. It also helps to reduce the influence of extraneous variables, making the results more reliable and valid.

What are some potential challenges in isolating variables in a scientific experiment?

Some potential challenges in isolating variables in a scientific experiment include identifying all relevant variables, controlling for all potential confounding factors, and ensuring that the isolated variable is truly independent. Additionally, it can be difficult to completely control the environment and eliminate all sources of bias.

Similar threads

MHB Use Variables to Create Function
Replies
6
Views
2K
I Isolating a complex-valued variable
Replies
2
Views
1K
MHB Solve for X | Math Problem | Paul's Question
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Solving a System of Nonlinear Equations Symbolically
Replies
9
Views
2K
B Difference between functions and variables
Replies
13
Views
2K
I Make Intelligent Initial Guesses for Newton-Raphson Programmatically
Replies
16
Views
2K
MHB Levels of Measurement, Basic OLS Regression Questions
Replies
1
Views
2K
I Can Angular Velocity Accurately Control Ragdoll Limbs in Game Physics?
Replies
5
Views
2K
Isolating a variable gives me endless loop
Replies
6
Views
1K
MHB Dimensional scaling implementation
Replies
1
Views
1K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top