History of Hindu Mathematics: A Source Book v2.c17.s26.14

v2.c17.s26.14

“With the exception of an optional unknown, assume arbitrary values for the rest of the unknowns, the product of which forms the factum. The sum of the products of these (assumed values) and the (respective) coefficients of the unknowns will be absolute quantities. The continued products of the assumed values and of the coefficient of the factum will be the coefficient of the optionally (left out) unknown. Thus the solution is effected without forming an equation of the factum. Why then was it done so?”¹