Forum Discussion
How do I solve for an unknown variable from an equation using solver in Excel?
2 things, first are they trying to be cute, as that pdf says 'dont not waste your time'
Second, try this. On your spreadsheet, change b1 to any number, doesn't matter, just so there is no error in D2
Go to the data ribbon and click What-if analysis and goal seak. Fill it out as follows:
Set cell: D2
To value: 1.89
By Changing cell: B4
click ok, it will do it's thing and then give you an answer (1.06034391953358).
Is that what you need?
Thanks, Phillip, for your very helpful reply! However, I forgot to mention my assignment states that there are actually six correct answers for this equation.
"Step 3: Determine six correct periods and submit the complete spreadsheet with six correct answers included to the instructor."
I assume that multiple correct values in this case is simply due to the oscillating nature of the cosine function. However, I am not sure how to set things up to solve for six correct solutions in Excel!
Also, using Solver and setting D2 as the objective (to a value of 1.89, by changing variable cell B4), I got an answer of T = 1.256897 s. This turned out to be at least one of the six correct values for T, as I plugged it into the equation with my calculator and saw the equation multiplied out very close to 1.89. (I also plugged in the 1.06 value of T, but found the equation multiplied out to 2.34, which is the value of A, not of a(t).)
Anyway, do you know how I can set things up using Solver and Excel so that it will show six correct values for the period described by this equation? I have attached the assignment sheet again so you can take another look at what the problem is asking me to do.
Thanks in advance for your invaluable help and advice!
- Stephen Lanford
Ahh. I'm not sure. Short of running goal seek a bunch of times and hoping for all 6 answers i'm not sure :/