You’re still learning, and that’s amazing! Substitution and evaluating expressionsĭepending on your grade level or class, you might not know some of those concepts yet, which is totally okay.If you’re trying to calculate how many hot dogs you started with if you ate $$2$$ and there are $$3$$ left… guess what? That’s algebra! You’re solving $$x – 2 = 3$$, and you didn’t even realize it! Algebra conceptsĪlgebra is an expansive branch of mathematics that encompasses many different concepts, like: What is algebra used for?Īlgebra is used for so much more than just homework! Algebra is employed to uncover an unknown value, which is helpful in everything from calculus class to economic analyses. You’ll hear those terms used during lessons and in textbooks, so that’s a good list to keep in your back pocket!īasic algebra might start with only one variable, but as you progress on your journey, you’ll see more variables (and more operators!) which will make your value sleuthing a little more difficult. This definition is comprehensive but not too complicated, so it’s a great home base for defining this branch of math. the branch of mathematics that describes operations and relations between different types of mathematical objects (sets of numbers, values, vectors, etc.) in the most general way If you’re looking for a more formal definition of what makes algebra algebra, here’s our favorite basic definition:Īlgebra | noun. If you start to wonder why you should care, repeat this to yourself: confidence in algebra will mean comfort down the road! The definition of algebra It’s important to know that algebra is an essential building block for calculus, trigonometry, and other branches of math, so make sure you really take the time to understand these fundamental concepts.īelieve it or not, algebra will become that extra-comfy sweatshirt that you reach for over and over again when you’re out of ideas and don’t know where to start. Think of it this way: Instead of $$2 + 2 = 4$$, you’d see $$2 + 2x = 4$$ and have to figure out what value that variable $$x$$ could represent. Solving the mystery of these variables is what makes algebra so fun! ![]() “$$x$$” is not always equal to the same number sometimes, it’s not even equal to anything at all). ![]() You’ll see variables pop up in equations as anything from $$a$$, $$b$$, or $$c$$ to $$x, y$$, and $$z$$ but, because they’re letters, they have no fixed value (e.g. those are all relations!Ī variable is a symbol with no fixed value. For example, two elements can be equal, one can be greater than the other, etc. Relations are just the connections between two elements, whatever they are. Roll your shoulders back, unclench your jaw, and let’s get started!Įssentially, algebra is operations and relationships of variables.īasic operations are what you already know and love – addition, subtraction, multiplication, division – but there are also more complicated operations like exponentiation, taking roots, and more. ![]() ![]() We’re here to make sure that, with a little background information and a willingness to learn, you can embark on this algebraic adventure calmly and confidently. One day you’re practicing times tables, and the next? There are letters now?!īut there’s no need to panic (really!). Introduction to Algebra – Basics, Concepts, Examples, PracticeĪh, algebra… This is a real milestone in a math student’s journey.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
Details
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |