How Do You Solve Direct and Indirect Variation Problems

For direct variation, use the equation y = kx, where k is the constant of proportionality. For inverse variation, use the equation y = k/x, again, with k as the constant of proportionality. Remember that these problems might use the word ‘proportion’ instead of ‘variation,’ but it means the same thing.

How do you solve an indirect variation problem?

1. Identify the input, x, and the output, y.
2. Determine the constant of variation. …
3. Use the constant of variation to write an equation for the relationship.
4. Substitute known values into the equation to find the unknown.

What are the steps in solving problems involving direct and inverse variation?

• Write the formula for direct variation.
• Substitute the given values for the variables.
• Solve for the constant of variation.
• Write the equation that relates x and y.