9514 1404 393
Explanation:
Understanding what a variable stands for is essential when substituting values or interpreting answers.
__
For example, consider the equation for arc length:
s = rθ
The variables stand for ...
For proper use of this formula, it is essential to understand that the variables s and r have the same units of length. The angular measure is not degrees (or grads), but is the unitless measure of angles known as radians.
It would be erroneous to use feet or yards for 'r' and expect the arc length 's' to be in miles. Similarly, it would be erroneous to substitute 30° for θ, instead of the equivalent radian measure π/6.
These errors can be avoided if the variables are properly described.