How to Use Equation Triangles in Calculations
There are many occasions when you have to use an equation in Science, particularly in
Physics. The Equation Triangles are a way in which you can easily learn to use and
rearrange equations, even if you are not confident in your Maths.
With a triangle such as the one here, you can find V,
I or R.
To find V cover it with your thumb, you can see the
equation I x R.
To find I cover it with your thumb, you see V
divided by R or V/R.
Finally to get R, cover it and you will see V divided
by I or V/I
V
I
X
R
Triangles work for any equation where you have to use 3 different variables, they may
also work for more letters if some of them are linked together.
To put an equation into a triangle just look at how it is written
Eg.
F = M x A (force = mass x acceleration )
In this equation the F is alone so it will be at the top M x A will be at the bottom, so we
get
F
M
A
Other suitable equations would be,
V =f λ for speed of waves, V= d/t for velocity, Wd= F d for work done
GPE= mg x h for gravitational potential energy ( if mass and gravity are
calculated together W= m x g to work out weight)
P=I x V for electrical power.
Q = I x t to calculate charge