What mathematical operation would you use to solve for an unknown variable?

The correct choice highlights the importance of manipulating equations to isolate an unknown variable, which is fundamental in algebra and problem-solving in aviation maintenance and other fields. Rearranging the equation using any basic operation means you can apply addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division as necessary to move terms around and solve for the variable of interest.

For example, if you have an equation such as ( ax + b = c ), you can rearrange it by subtracting ( b ) from both sides to get ( ax = c - b ), and then divide by ( a ) to isolate ( x ). This flexibility is critical because different problems will require different combinations of operations to solve effectively.

This approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of algebraic manipulation, allowing technicians and engineers to find unknowns in various situations they may encounter during maintenance tasks. Understanding and being able to apply various operations are essential skills for anyone working in aviation maintenance, as they routinely deal with equations and data analysis.