Formulae
The plural of formula is formulae. A formula is a mathematical rule or relationship that uses letters to represent amounts which can be changed – these are called variables. For example, the formula to work out the area of a triangle.
\(\text{Triangle area} = \frac{bh}{2}\) (where \(b\) represents the base of the triangle and \(h\) represents the height of the triangle). \(b\) and \(h\) are variables because they can have different values, depending on the size of the triangle.
The formula is also known as: \(\frac{1}{2} \times b \times h\)
Formulae contain equals signs, as do equations, so it can sometimes be difficult to tell the difference between an equation and a formula.
- A formula shows the relationship between two or more variables. It is a calculation for a specific purpose, for example converting Fahrenheit to Celsius or vice versa. Subject to certain conditions, a formula is also always true, no matter what values are put in.
- An equation can have one or more variables. It will only work for certain values, and is not always true. For example, the equation \(2x + 5 = 13\) will only be true if \(x\) is equal to 4. If any other value is put in, then the equation will no longer be correct. An equation, like a formula must balance for both sides to be equal.
More guides on this topic
- Algebraic expressions - Eduqas
- Solving linear equations - Eduqas
- Solving simultaneous equations - Eduqas
- Solving quadratic equations - Eduqas
- Inequalities - Eduqas
- Sequences - Eduqas
- Straight line graphs - Eduqas
- Other Graphs - Eduqas
- Transformation of curves - Higher - Eduqas
- Using and interpreting graphs - Eduqas
- Algebraic fractions - Eduqas