Math Problem Statement

Process to solve inverse proportional using formula: y=k/x Flashcard

Solution

To solve inverse proportionality problems using the formula y=kxy = \frac{k}{x}, you can follow these steps:

Process to Solve:

  1. Understand the Relationship:

    • Inverse proportionality means that as xx increases, yy decreases, and vice versa. The constant kk is known as the constant of proportionality.
  2. Identify Known Values:

    • You need at least one set of (x,y)(x, y) values and the constant kk to solve for the unknown.
  3. Write the Formula:

    • The basic formula for inverse proportionality is y=kxy = \frac{k}{x}, where kk is the constant of proportionality.
  4. Find the Constant kk:

    • If you are given a pair of (x,y)(x, y), substitute these values into the formula to solve for kk: k=xyk = x \cdot y
  5. Use kk to Solve for Other Values:

    • After finding kk, you can use it to calculate yy for different values of xx, or solve for xx if yy is known: y=kxorx=kyy = \frac{k}{x} \quad \text{or} \quad x = \frac{k}{y}

Flashcard Example:

Q: How do you solve inverse proportionality using the formula y=kxy = \frac{k}{x}?

A:

  1. Recognize the relationship y=kxy = \frac{k}{x}.
  2. Identify given values for xx and yy.
  3. Find the constant kk by multiplying xx and yy.
  4. Use kk to solve for unknown values of yy or xx.

Practice Example:

Problem:
If y=6y = 6 when x=3x = 3, find yy when x=9x = 9.

  1. First, find the constant kk: k=xy=36=18k = x \cdot y = 3 \cdot 6 = 18

  2. Now, use k=18k = 18 to find yy when x=9x = 9: y=kx=189=2y = \frac{k}{x} = \frac{18}{9} = 2

So, when x=9x = 9, y=2y = 2.


5 Related Questions to Explore:

  1. What happens if the constant kk is negative in inverse proportionality?
  2. How do you graph inverse proportionality on a coordinate plane?
  3. Can you apply inverse proportionality to real-world situations like physics or economics?
  4. How do you solve for xx if yy and kk are known?
  5. What is the difference between direct and inverse proportionality?

Tip:

When working with inverse proportionality, always remember that the product of xx and yy is constant. If the values of xx and yy change, their product will remain the same.

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Math Problem Analysis

Mathematical Concepts

Inverse Proportionality
Algebra
Proportional Relationships

Formulas

y = k / x
k = x * y

Theorems

Inverse Proportionality Theorem

Suitable Grade Level

Grades 8-10