Question

P=2L+2W solve for W.

Answer 1

W = P/2 -L

Explanation:

Answer 2

`W=(P-2L)/(2)`

Explanation:

A literal equation allows us to replace mathematical values with variables.

Solving Literal Equation

When solving a literal equation, we should work in reverse PEMDAS order. remember that PEMDAS stands for paratheses, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction. When doing arithmetic we work from P to S, but when solving a literal equation we should work in the opposite order, from S to P.

First, let's subtract 2L from both sides.

• P - 2L = 2W

Then, to isolate W, let's divide by 2.

• 
  `(P-2L)/(2)` = W

This gives us our final equation for W.

Interpreting the Answer

The equation above, P=2L+2W, most likely represents the perimeter of a quadrilateral. In this equation, P represents the perimeter, L is the length, and W is the width. This means that the equation we solved for will allow us to solve for the width. So, if there is a problem where you are given the perimeter and length, you can now find the width.