how do i solve this equation?

(1.012)(1 + F)^2 = 1.0457

First divide both sides by (1.012):

(1 + F)^2 = 1.0457/1.012

Then take the square root of both sides:

(1 + F) = sqrt(1.0457/1.012)

Then subtract 1 to get F alone:

F = sqrt(1.0457/1.012) - 1

Just for your convenience, I evaluated it already, and the answer is:
0.016513844105

Thank you for your question.

skermit-ga

0.016513844105 is only half the answer.

When you take the square root of both sides, the +/- (plus or minus)
sign needs to be added :
 
 (1 + F) = +/- sqrt(1.0457/1.012)

therefore,
F = 0.016513844105 or -2.016513844105


good luck with your studies!

Yup, forgot about that. Thanks jasonkoh-ga!

skermit-ga