SureMath - the math software for 21st century problem solving - was used to solve this problem.

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Starting with a concept, here the whole is the sum of its parts, leads to a simpler solution than starting with one of the given statements. Starting with concept becomes essential in problems in a subject matter course such as physics. Only the simpler algebra problems can be solved by using the given material as a starting point. This is one of the reasons students have such difficulties with physics problems on the more complex algebra problems. The try develop the solution from the givens rather than from the concept. This is a workable approach in only the simplest situations.

Introductory problems are simple enough that you can easily put together an answer. This results in never developing the skills to handle more involved problems. By practicing organizing the solution as shown in this example you will develop the skills needed to handle more advance problems and real world problems. The steps in the solution shown above is present in the solution to all problems. The words change, the symbols change and the ideas change but the problem solving process remains the same. Learn it now and become a happy problem solver from grade school through grad school and beyond.

It should be noted that the development of the solution above is the same as the simple problem shown below. It is simply a matter of processing the starting equation term by term in a left-right manner in both problems. The word change, the symbols change and the ideas change. The problem solving process remains the same.

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Those interested in solving problems easily and reliably would do well to study these two solutions carefully.