Question

The formula for the sum of the degree measures of the interior angles of a polygon is S= 180(n-2). Solve for n, the number of sides of the polygon, in terms of S

Answer 1

n = S/180 + 2

Explanation:

S = 180(n - 2)

First, divide both sides by 180.

S/180 = n - 2

Now add 2 to both sides.

S/180 + 2 = n

n = S/180 + 2

Answer 2

n = (S/180) + 2

Explanation:

You are solving for n, and so isolate the variable. Note the equal sign, what you do to one side, you do to the other. Do the opposite of PEMDAS:

PEMDAS =

Parenthesis

Exponent ( & roots)

Multiplication

Division

Addition

Subtraction

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

First, divide 180 from both sides

(S)/180 = (180(n - 2))/180

S/180 = n - 2

Next, to isolate the variable (n) completely, add 2 to both sides

(S/180) (+2) = n - 2 (+2)

(S/180) + 2 = n

n = (S/180) + 2 is your answer

~