Math

Hi

If we take a number, say 6, and multiply it by 4, the product is 24

If I then compare that with the original number, I can calculate the difference and it is 18

In fact, it will always be three times the original number

Dave

I interpret this to mean either of two things:

4y - 2/3 = 34/3

or

2/3 - 4y = 34/3

For the first one, multiplying through by 3 gives:

12y -2 = 34

12y = 36

y = 3

Check: 4(3) - 2/3 = 12 - 2/3 = 36/3 - 2/3 = 34/3

For the second one, multiplying though by 3 gives:

2 - 12y = 34

-12y = 32

y =

In the first part of what you say, are you saying subtraction doesn't work both ways round?

x -1 = y

... is not the same equation as

1 - x = y

With addition, we do get the same result

x +1 = y

... is identical with

1 + x = y

Do get back if that's not what you mean

Dave