Rearranging equations
What Rearranging equations means in Combined Science GCSE, as defined for AQA.
Definitions of Rearranging equations
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Rearranging equations in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Writing the equation in another form, such as L = E ÷ m to give the energy needed per kilogram, or m = E ÷ L to give the mass.
The equation can be rearranged to give current as charge flow divided by time, and time as charge flow divided by current.
Rearranged, W = P × t and t = W ÷ P, so rearrange before substituting numbers when a question asks for time or work done.
The equation can be rearranged so that energy transferred = power × time and time = energy transferred ÷ power.
Making the unknown the subject of the equation before substituting numerical values, which is a key skill.
The equation can be rearranged so that speed = distance ÷ time and time = distance ÷ speed.
Topics that use Rearranging equations
- Acceleration (AQA GCSE)
- Changes of state and specific latent heat (AQA GCSE)
- Electrical charge and current (AQA GCSE)
- Power (AQA GCSE)
- Speed (AQA GCSE)
Related terms
- Unit consistency in calculations
- Unit conversion and standard units
- Current
- Joule
- Units and unit conversion
- Velocity
- Acceleration
- Acceleration of free fall
Using Rearranging equations in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise Combined Science questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge