The variables x and y vary inversely, and x = 12 when y = 6. Use the inverse variation formula, k = xy, to find y when x = 3.
First, we can use the given information to find the value of the constant of variation, k:
k = xy
k = 12 * 6
k = 72
Now that we have the constant of variation, we can use it to find y when x = 3:
k = xy
72 = 3y
y = 72/3
y = 24
Therefore, when x = 3, y = 24 in this inverse variation scenario.