Question

Using the formula P = 2(a + b), find a when P = 15 and b = 5.

Answer 1

first distribute and take the a + 5 out of the parenthesis

Answer 2

so you get 2a + 10

Answer 3

Ohkay, just substitute the given numerical values of 'a' and 'P' on the formula 'P = 2(a+b)', and you will land up with:

15 = 2(a+5)

Can you solve this to find 'a'?

Answer 4

2a + 10 = 15

Answer 5

now try solving

Answer 6

subtract 10 from both sides and you get 2a = 5

Answer 7

then you divide 2 from both sides and you get \[a = 5 / 2\]

Answer 8

5 over 2

Answer 9

do you understand now?

Answer 10

yes