Chapter 3

Algebraic Formulae

Substituting into formulae and changing the subject of a formula — with an interactive exercise.

An algebraic formula links quantities, e.g. $A = l \times w$ (area of a rectangle) or $v = u + at$.

To use a formula, substitute the known values. For $v = u + at$ with $u = 2$, $a = 3$, $t = 4$: $v = 2 + 3 \times 4 = 14$. We can also change the subject to make a different letter the focus.

Remember

  • Substitute values carefully, following order of operations.
  • Changing the subject rearranges the formula.

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