Answer to Question #106937 in Algebra for Nikita Koladiya

Question

Explain the meaning of the term “variable”. Write a puzzle for a 10-year child. Write an equation with a variable in it which gives a solution to the question raised by the puzzle. Also give a solution to the puzzle and interpret it.

Answer 1

Variable is a designation of an unknown object in the task to be found.

Variables are very common in our life, but we rarely realize it.

For example:

Martin wants to buy a lollipop. It costs 5$. But Martin have only 2$. How much dollars he needs to buy a lollipop.

Solution:

We know that Martin has 2$. But the prise is 5$. Let's write variables like "x". We have to find, how much he needs.

2 (how much he has now) + x(how much he needs) = 5.

$2 + x = 5$

Let's subtract 2 from the left and from the right

$x = 5 - 2$

--> $x = 3$

Martin needs extra $3 to buy a lollipop.