Question

which of these is an example of a literal equation? a. $ax - by = k$ b. $5 + 20 = 5^2$ c. $2x + 7y$ d. $4x + 7 = 22$

Explanation:

A literal equation is an equation with two or more variables (letters) and is used to represent a relationship between quantities. Let's analyze each option:

• Option A: \( ax - by = k \) has variables \( a \), \( x \), \( b \), \( y \), and \( k \), so it's a literal equation with multiple variables.
• Option B: \( 5 + 20 = 5^2 \) is a numerical equation with no variables, so it's not a literal equation.
• Option C: \( 2x + 7y \) is an algebraic expression, not an equation (no equal sign), so it's not a literal equation.
• Option D: \( 4x + 7 = 22 \) is an equation with only one variable (\( x \)), so it's not a literal equation (literal equations typically have multiple variables).

Answer:

A. \( ax - by = k \)