The CAS can solve for a variable in a formula. Consider the motion equation
v = u + at. Suppose that you want to solve this formula for time, t.
If you inspect the calculator keyboard, you will note that x, y, z and t have
dedicated keys. Other variables are entered by pressing the ALPHA key first. For
example, to access a, press ALPHA , then =.
2. Press F2, and select 1:solve(.
Type v = u + a× t, then a comma,
then t followed by a close bracket
).
Tech Tip: be sure to type the
multiplication operation between
the a and the t. Otherwise, the
CAS will treat at as a single
variable with the name at.
Press ENTER.
Tech Tip: the new form of the formula is sometimes displayed in an unusual
manner.
Try solving other formulas, such as V = πr
2
h for r.
Checking the solution to an equation
You can use the CAS to test a
solution to an equation. As an
example, test whether x = 2 is a
solution for the equation
3x – 1 = –7.
1. Type 3x – 1 = –7. Then, press
the | (such that) key, followed by
x = 2.
Press ENTER.
Note that the CAS returns a value of false. Hence, x = 2 is not a solution for the
equation. Try the check again with x = –2. Note that this time the CAS returns a
value of true. Hence, x = –2 is a solution.
Try checking a few more solutions for other equations.
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